Former County Commissioner Revels says developers are 'outrageous' for suing Ken Bryan

Palm Coast Observer
Opinion

Dear Editor:

It is pretty outrageous that a local developer with a lot of land to develop would take the low road and start suing concerned citizens. Of course, I am speaking of the defamation lawsuit that parent-cousin companies of Palm Coast Intracoastal LLC filed against Flagler Beach resident Ken Bryan.

Bryan is a member of a large, organized group that is seeking well-planned quality development on the property known as the Gardens. The Preserve Flagler Beach and Bulow Creek organization attends meetings, researches and stays well informed of our local land development codes and other agency requirements.

Citizens, don’t be intimidated, don’t let your right to free speech be lessened by big dollars. Continue to persevere to save our fragile and beautiful community.

Ken Bryan is a candidate for the City of Flagler Beach municipal elections in March. What a shame this developer felt threatened enough to try and taint Mr. Bryan’s candidacy — worried of his potential election?

We all know how developers around the country attempt to intimidate citizens with SLAPPs (strategic lawsuits against public participation). Deep pocketed developers with attorneys ready to run to the courthouse if they sniff opposition know the average citizen can’t fight equally in that venue.

The venue should instead be in front of the planning Boards and city and county commissions and, finally, the voters, when their elected officials fail them.

It is even more interesting that the lawsuit was leaked conveniently to the Palm Coast Observer before Mr. Bryan was served.

Ken will be a strong voice if elected to the Flagler Beach City Commission, demanding the city be represented at the table when mega developers come knocking at Flagler Beach’s doors and need their services. Citizens, don’t be intimidated, don’t let your right to free speech be lessened by big dollars. Continue to persevere to save our fragile and beautiful community.

Barbara Revels

Flagler Beach

Editor's Note: Barbara Revels is a former Flagler County commissioner.