Daytona Beach hospitality industry brokers following the controversy tell GlobeSt.com, on condition of anonymity, that everybody involved in the settlement was careful not to call the half-million-dollar check a payoff to the town, but a settlement of the dispute. However, the town council, which still has to approve the deal, asked for the money to settle the fight, brokers tell GlobeSt.com, a view not contradicted by Ponce Inlet elected officials.

State Circuit Judge J. David Walsh ruled April 11 the seven-story, 378-unit Links condos, which have an estimated 70-foot height, could resume construction, even though it exceeded the town's 35-foot height limit. All future new commercial, industrial or residential construction in Ponce Inlet, however, can't be taller than 35 feet, the judge ruled.

About 20 existing commercial buildings in Ponce Inlet, already over the height limit, would be allowed to stand, the court order states. Links is part of American Safety's $210 million Harbour Village Golf and Yacht Club mixed-used enterprise being developed in Ponce.