Monday, Dec. 8: Jacksonville Fostering Filmmakers + New Community Survey + Edward Waters Stadium Upgrades
Monday, Dec. 8
Your local news briefing
5 Headlines You Should Know Today
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St. Augustine’s first female police chief retiring Jan. 13
St. Augustine Police Chief Jennifer Michaux will retire on January 13, ending a 30-year career in law enforcement and nearly five years as the city’s first female chief. A U.S. Navy veteran, Michaux joined the department in 1995 and is credited with modernizing operations, including consolidating dispatch with the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office. Michaux says she’s most proud of the community connections she’s made. The city manager will appoint her successor after certification by the Civil Service Board. Michaux plans to remain local and “relax.”
New pickleball, gyms, shops reshape Jacksonville’s regional retail corridors
A wave of retail activity is reshaping corridors from Oakleaf to Wildlight. New businesses include the Paddle Lands Pickleball Club in Oakleaf, a second Cline’s Butcher Shop in St. Johns, and D1 Training’s latest gym in St. Augustine. Mattress Warehouse also opened in Wildlight. Coming soon are a new Skechers store, Office Evolution’s Town Center expansion, and several new gas and liquor stores. Meanwhile, Kirkland’s Home at The Market at Town Center is closing as part of a nationwide downsizing. This churn reflects ongoing consumer demand and shifting retail trends.
Council weighs $15 million UNF, Edward Waters stadium upgrades
The Jacksonville City Council plans to vote on a $15 million funding package for upgrades at the University of North Florida's Hodges Stadium and community facilities at Edward Waters University. The funds will support job training initiatives in Duval County and allow for upgrades at UNF to host regional events. Edward Waters will use its share for a community center that doubles as a hurricane shelter. The proposal has received strong support but one council member argues for prioritizing city infrastructure needs.
New community survey asks residents: What is Jacksonville, really?
Jacksonville is launching a new community survey aimed at defining the city’s identity. While the city has seen rapid growth—over 30,000 new residents in just two years—civic leaders argue the city still lacks a cohesive image. The 10-minute online survey asks residents to reflect on what makes Jacksonville unique, from iconic landmarks to favorite colors representing the city. Council CEO Dennis Whittle says this effort isn’t about sparking growth, but shaping it with intention. The results will help guide future branding and development.
Three local filmmakers receive inaugural Jacksonville Fostering Filmmakers grants
Three Jacksonville creatives are receiving a boost from the inaugural Jacksonville Fostering Filmmakers Grant. Local rapper and actress KaMillion, along with filmmakers Carlos Smith II and Ithiell Yisrael, were each awarded $10,000 to support upcoming independent film projects. The initiative was developed from Mayor Donna Deegan’s Arts, Culture and Entertainment Transition Committee and is managed by the Jacksonville Film and Television Office. Organizers say the program builds on Jacksonville’s century-long cinematic history, including ties to Oscar Micheaux and Norman Studios. You can read more in the Jacksonville Free Press.
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