- January 20, 2025
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City officials during an April 21 City Council meeting said the city would take a cautious, evidence-based approach to reopening when the time comes to do so.
Even after the peak of the COVID-19 passes, Fire Chief Jerry Forte said, the virus will still pose a danger.
“Just because we’ve hit our peak doesn’t mean we can stop doing some of these practices,” he said.
Experts are recommending that social distancing continue until health authorities notify officials that they’re ready to move to a containment strategy, City Manager Matt Morton said. That’s expected to happen around June 1.
“Do not rush this thing,” Councilman Eddie Branquinho said. “My son is a nurse in the hospital, and that’s his first thing when he comes now — ‘I hope they don’t rush this.’”
“Just because somebody tells you the Greeks have left and the war is over, don’t open the gates and drag that big horse inside. ... We need to keep in mind that for the foreseeable future, we can all kill each other by coughing on each other, potentially.”
— BOB CUFF, Palm Coast city councilman
Mayor Milissa Holland said she’s been pleased with the council’s unity about social distancing.
Addressing the public, she said, “We’re asking you to please continue to be patient. ... Your actions have potentially saved lives — your neighbors’ lives.”
Palm Coast Utility/Public Works Director Richard Adams is retiring after 43 years with the city of Palm Coast, City Manager Matt Morton announced during the April 21 meeting.
Adams’ last day of work will be May 1. Once social distancing measures are lifted, Morton said, “We fully intend to invite Mr. Adams back for the celebration and recognition that he deserves.”
“Rich, you’re a gentleman, a scholar, a wealth of knowledge and you’ll be missed,” Branquinho said.
City of Palm Coast utility crews spent about 50 hours of overtime on the weekend of April 11-12 clearing wipes out of the city’s wastewater pumps, according to a city news release.
The flushing of wipes, paper towels and other items not intended for toilets has created headaches for city staff for weeks: In late March, almost 150 city wastewater pumps were clogged.
At the city’s the Virtual Town Hall on April 15, Mayor Milissa Holland announced the Mayor’s Rise Up Palm Coast Initiative, aimed at connecting the community.
“We’re partnering with organizations and representatives throughout Palm Coast to deliver dynamic, engaging virtual content to help you live a healthy, fulfilling life in even the most challenging times,” Holland said in a news release. “You’ll be able to learn about cooking healthy meals, exercise at home, discover family activities, enjoy arts, performances and more.”
The content is available on Palm Coast Parks & Recreation Facebook page. Community groups and members can provide video content at www.palmcoastconnect.com/s/parks-and-recreation.
