Commissioners agree to further vet public‑private partnership to keep Seagull adult day center open

James Griswald and several family caregivers urged Flagler County commissioners on June 1 to pursue options that would keep the David I. Seagull adult day center operating after county staff notified users the center is slated to close Oct. 1, 2026.

The board heard emotional testimony from Pam Fenel, whose husband attends the Seagull Center, who described how daily adult daycare eased caregiving burdens and said the facility generated roughly $100,000 in 2024 but has seen enrollment decline. ‘‘This is not just about money,’’ Fenel said, adding that home care costs can be about three times the price of daily adult daycare.

Entrepreneur and consultant Scott Coloulton and operator Anna Rosa Brandov described a private operator model the board could consider. Brandov, who runs two adult day centers elsewhere, outlined a care model focused on nutrition, daily activity, social engagement and family support and said an adult day program is a cost‑effective alternative to nursing homes for many families. Brandov estimated the county facility could serve 30–40 clients if reconfigured and said some centers accept VA payments once a VA license is in place.

County staff framed the board’s options: the building is currently deed‑restricted for senior services, the facility needs capital work (roof, parking lot and other deferred maintenance), and the petitioner requested limited, one‑time county support to offset first‑year revenue shortfalls while a private operator ramps up. Legal counsel has reviewed the initial proposal but told the board the concept would need a more detailed comprehensive agreement if the commission elects to pursue a public‑private partnership under Florida Statutes §255.065.

After discussion about timing, sole‑source versus solicited proposals, licensing advantages to an immediate transfer and the limits of county authority, the commission signaled consensus to direct staff and county counsel to continue vetting a P3: to develop a comprehensive agreement and a lease framework that would keep ownership with the county while an operator runs the center. Commissioners agreed to return with more specifics, including financial details, proposed capital expenditures, and draft terms before any final approval.

What happens next: staff will work with the petitioner to flesh out capital needs, proposed one‑time county funding and contract terms; the board will review a comprehensive agreement and lease terms at a subsequent meeting before any transfer of operations or funding is approved.