Topping the agenda was the ordinance proposing restrictions on the use of public property and the temporary moratorium on special event permits. The ordinance was introduced as a response to public safety concerns post the shootings in March. During the meeting, members of the public and City Council debated the effectiveness of such a moratorium, with some worrying it could negatively impact law-abiding event organizers without addressing the core issues leading to violence. Despite the discussions, when the vote was called, the motion for the temporary moratorium was unanimously voted down by the City Council.

Public safety continued to be a significant theme throughout the meeting, with David Kohill, President of the lodge 17 Florida Fraternal Order of Police, presenting a case on the understaffing of the Jacksonville Beach Police Department. Citing statistics, Kohill raised concerns over the department’s lack of growth, which has not kept pace with the increasing population and the influx of visitors to Jacksonville Beach. The police chief mentioned that the department was currently short of 20 officers out of a full complement of 67. This deficit prompted the council to acknowledge the urgency for recruitment and the necessity to bolster the force.

In the same vein, the authority and capabilities of lifeguards on the beach to manage illegal activities was brought up, with the recommendation to defer this discussion to a later date.

Apart from public safety, the meeting also recognized community and council achievements. A council member congratulated Fernando Meza for receiving a Latin leadership award. Additionally, the council praised the parks and recreation department for the successful Easter egg hunt and mentioned further upcoming events at the seawalk. The new City attorney, David Migot, was welcomed in the session.

As part of the meeting’s procedural components, a proclamation was made declaring April as National Donate Life month.

Some public speakers emphasized the need for increased security measures and higher parking fees to augment safety measures. Another perspective suggested that the proposed ordinance may not effectively target the root causes of recent public safety concerns.

The City Manager provided insight into the intent behind the proposed ordinance, explaining it sought to address the council’s concerns stemming from the recent shootings and the preluding events. However, the accompanying memo highlighted worries about how a moratorium could disrupt the time-sensitive nature of event planning and permitting.

The dialogue within the council demonstrated a willingness to reevaluate the permitting process for events to ensure they benefit the community and maintain safety standards. A second reading of the ordinance was scheduled.