Flagler County approves Sea Ray expansion
Sea Ray has won permission to add to its employee parking lot at its Flagler Beach, Fla., facility after months of public hearings and debate.
The Flagler County Commission voted unanimously Monday night to approve Sea Ray’s request for a zoning change from residential low-density and single-family to commercial high intensity so it can build its lot, the Palm County Observer reported.
Sea Ray needs the additional parking space because the current lot is being used to store boat molds as the plant has expanded from three models to 17 over the last several years. That has forced employees to park along an adjoining road.
Opponents of the rezoning have said they are worried the change will allow Sea Ray to expand its manufacturing facility, but Sea Ray has said it has no plans to add to the factory.
Flagler Chamber President Rebecca DeLorenzo spoke in favor of the zoning change, noting that Sea Ray is a major employer of local residents, the paper reported.
“Sea Ray’s request before you tonight are simple and without hidden agendas,” she said. “It’s about a business with deep roots in Flagler County, and to improve safety for 650 team members, and to enhance operating efficiency, again, by building a parking lot. … Voting yes will send a clear message that Flagler County values the businesses that choose to operate in our community.”
