Flagler County on Monday was informed that it was receiving a special reward for its public safety. The county was chosen for an Annual Regional Award for Excellence from the Northeast Florida Regional Council (NEFRC). Though the specific choice of public safety as Flagler County’s field of excellence invokes one of the county’s law enforcement agencies, the award actually recognizes a different virtue altogether.
According to a report on the award by a county spokesperson, the award was given to Flagler County for its Certificate of Waiver for Drones Beyond the Line of Sight, a qualification administered by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The county government believes it may be the first in the nation with a certificate covering remote-piloted drone operation past the line of sight, over human beings, and over moving vehicles.
“There continues to be engaging and transformational work happening across Northeast Florida,” said NEFRC Chief Executive Officer Beth Payne. “It is an honor to celebrate those projects and initiatives that enhance local communities in the region. We look forward to celebrating these accomplishments at the Awards Ceremony on January 9.”
Flagler County’s drone program is used as just one aspect of its emergency response operations, as well as in infrastructure inspections and other jobs within the scope of public safety. The most recent drone purchase made by the county ran up a bill of $275,000, which may seem expensive…but the county is hoping it will be a positive investment in order to save on contracted flight and drone surveying which would well exceed that cost over an extended timeline. The county’s spokesperson claimed that only one or two major storms in the area could produce a return on investment.
“Receiving an award like this serves as testament to the efforts made to shape a vibrant and interconnected community, where collaboration is not just a concept but a way of life,” said County Administrator Heidi Petito said. “Together, we celebrate the power of working hand-in-hand to build a resilient and thriving Northeast Florida.”
Chris Gollon is a Flagler County resident since 2004, as well as a staple of the local independent music scene and avid observer of Central Florida politics, arts, and recreation.
