Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Nassau County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
11 issues in general
Conditional Use Permits in Open Rural Districts
An applicant requested a conditional use permit to open a mobile home sales business on US Highway 1 north of Hilliard. The board approved the permit with the condition that it remains tied to the applicant and does not run with the land.
Land Lease Scrutiny
The state attorney is investigating JEA after they suddenly cancelled a dirt-cheap $1-a-year land lease with a Nassau County charity. It's raising serious questions about how public land deals are handled locally.
Potential Legislative Budget Reductions and House Bill 1329
Assistant County Manager Marshall Eyerman briefed the board on House Bill 1329, which requires counties to conduct 10% budget reduction exercises, raising questions about impacts on debt service and compliance costs.
Impact Fee Implementation and Square Footage Tiers
The school district presented drafts of the Tischler Bise Impact Fee Study along with annual reports showing collections and expenditures, noting that current reserves are not yet sufficient to fully fund a new school.
ICE immigration detention
Nassau County's jail is on track to lock up about 3,000 immigrants for ICE this year. It's a big deal because it highlights how local tax dollars and facilities are being tied directly into federal immigration sweeps.
Hurricane Evacuation
Nassau County just issued official evacuation orders as Hurricane Ian approaches. If you're in an affected zone, now's the time to check your local safety status and get moving.
Sheriff Residency Eligibility
Jacksonville Sheriff T.K. Waters might have accidentally lost his job because he moved out of Duval County into Nassau County. A draft legal opinion says the move technically means he vacated his office, creating major confusion for local law enforcement leadership.
Public Health Mandate
Fernandina Beach's mayor just made masks mandatory around town, so grab yours before heading out! It's a quick rule change you'll need to know if you're running errands in the city.
Beach Access Reopening
Good news for beachgoers—Nassau County and the city have finally locked in official dates to reopen local beaches. You can officially start planning your next weekend trip to the sand.
County Charter government
Nassau County is looking into a charter government, which would change how local decisions are made. This Q&A breaks down the basics so you can figure out how it might shift local power.
County Charter
Ever wonder how a county charter could change life in Nassau County? This quick Q&A breaks down how shaking up the local government structure might actually affect your day-to-day.