Business representatives and several council members used the Jan. 15 meeting to warn that staffing shortages and rising operating costs are constraining service levels in Flagler County’s tourism and hospitality sector.

Steven Baker of Hammock Beach Resort said group and resort business performed well for his property: “we had our best group year we’ve had since we opened in 2004,” he said, but in the same discussion other speakers described persistent difficulties recruiting and retaining employees during slower months. Several members noted an expanding regional job market, yearly increases in mandated labor costs and a shortage of affordable housing for workers as contributing factors; those conditions force businesses to reduce hours or staffing levels in off‑peak periods and undercut service consistency during peak seasons.

Members suggested shared‑staffing arrangements, increased coordination with workforce and housing programs, and inclusion of workforce concerns in the county’s strategic tourism planning. No formal action was taken; members said they expect the issues to be part of future strategic‑planning and master‑plan conversations.

Why it matters: Labor availability and housing affordability affect businesses that rely on tourism dollars and shape the county’s ability to sustain expanded events and visitor services.