City of Palm Coast Hosts Statewide CLOAF Conference, Bringing Economic and Professional Benefits to the Region

The City of Palm Coast proudly hosted the Contractor Licensing Officials Association of Florida (CLOAF) May Conference on May 29-30, 2025, at Palm Coast City Hall, 160 Lake Avenue. This two-day professional development event welcomed licensing officials and government representatives from jurisdictions across Florida, contributing to both the local economy and the city’s regional leadership in licensing enforcement.

While CLOAF conferences are typically held in larger metropolitan areas like Orlando, Palm Coast has successfully hosted the last two conferences—in November 2024 and May 2025—thanks to the efforts of Palm Coast Code Compliance Supervisor Luis Mendez, who advocated for bringing the event to the city.

The event drew 25 to 30 attendees, including representatives from municipal governments, building departments, the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office, Flagler County Emergency Management, and the local Builders Association. These professionals gathered in Palm Coast’s City Council Chambers for discussions, training sessions, and presentations focused on contractor licensing, enforcement practices, and preventing unlicensed construction activity.

The positive economic impact of the event was felt across the community, as attendees stayed in local hotels, dined in Palm Coast restaurants, and shopped in area stores—helping support small businesses and boost tourism during their stay. Hosting the CLOAF conference not only showcased Palm Coast’s facilities and hospitality but also recognized the city as a destination for regional and statewide professional events.

CLOAF offers continuing education credits (CCCU) required for professional certifications, making the May and November conferences essential for members. These meetings are also a critical venue for collaboration on statewide strategies to investigate and stop unlicensed contractors, a priority shared by both CLOAF and Palm Coast officials.

During the event, CLOAF presented a Certificate of Appreciation to the City of Palm Coast for hosting both the November and May conferences. Acting City Manager Lauren Johnston accepted the award on behalf of the City, thanking CLOAF for its trust and continued partnership.

“Hosting the CLOAF Conference is more than just a point of pride—it’s an investment in our professional workforce and a boost to our local economy,” Johnston said. “We’re honored that they chose Palm Coast as their venue.”

As Palm Coast continues to advance, its role in fostering safe development, supporting professional training, and welcoming regional events like CLOAF ensures the city remains a leader in both quality of life and public safety.

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