The ordinance’s approval follows recommendations from the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) coordinator and CRA Board, as well as the Planning Commission. The rezoning targets several properties, including a mixed-use structure with retail and office spaces on North 1st Street and addresses at 135, 129, and 123 North 5th Avenue. The council deliberated on the application’s implications, focusing on the impact of the proposed changes on existing liquor licenses, the construction timeline, and downtown revitalization efforts.

Specific concerns regarding the application included the grandfathering of a bar and potential connections between buildings. There were also procedural questions about the reviews by the CRA and Planning Commission. Proposed amendments to the ordinance during the meeting included an addition to prohibit valet services from using public parking spaces, which passed. However, motions to amend the application to remove the exception for the distance requirement for bars and to require enhanced pedestrian elements were voted down.

In other discussions, a member of the public raised questions about a zoning designation for single-family residential homes with a multifamily zoning designation, which led to a debate about accessory dwelling units (ADUs). The item was continued to the next council meeting on May 20th for further consideration.

Additionally, the council discussed the comprehensive plan for 2050, with staff providing an overview of the community engagement process and plans to transmit the plan to the State of Florida for review. The council also touched on the upcoming work on the Land Development Code and noted the comprehensive plan update as a refinement rather than a complete overhaul of the existing framework.

Another topic was the proposed amendments to the city charter concerning the procedure for filling council vacancies. Several members of the public voiced their opinions, with the majority favoring the current procedure that emphasizes the residents’ right to elect their representatives. Despite public concerns, the council moved to approve the proposed amendments on the first reading and scheduled a second reading for May 20th, 2024. Council Member Golding opposed question number two of the proposed amendments, arguing for the importance of elected rather than appointed council members.

The meeting further covered a visitor’s gratitude for the council’s support following the loss of the first African American elected city official of Jacksonville Beach, and the council’s acknowledgment of her contributions to the community. The council also recognized American Legion Family Day and National Safe Boating Week through proclamations.

In administrative proceedings, the council authorized the city manager to endorse documentation required by the Florida Department of Transportation for projects with a one-time receipt of funds to the city less than $25,000. They also approved a roadway elimination services agreement with the Florida Department of Transportation and an agreement with Selectron for IVR server upgrades.

Furthermore, the council discussed public infrastructure and property development topics, such as a construction services agreement with Burns and McDonnell for transmission system improvements and repairs, and the reclassification and retitle of several city department positions.