Wednesday, Dec. 17: School Safety + Jail Site Debate + Luxury Residences
Wednesday, Dec. 17
Your local news briefing
5 Headlines You Should Know Today
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Duval schools stay locked down amid pickup-threat investigation.
Four schools in Duval County remained on precautionary lockout Tuesday amid an ongoing investigation into reported threats made by a non-custodial parent. Chets Creek, Kernan Trail, J. Allen Axson Elementary, and Kernan Middle schools were placed on lockout starting Monday. District officials say the parent allegedly threatened anyone who might interfere with an attempt to pick up a student. While only two schools were directly involved, nearby campuses were also secured out of caution. Law enforcement continues to investigate, and schools are expected to remain on lockout today.
New jail site search triggers redlining and equity concerns.
The search for a new site to house Jacksonville’s consolidated jail and justice facilities is sparking debate over racial equity and neighborhood impacts. A consultant, set to be hired in 2026, will recommend three possible locations for the Jacksonville Justice Center, a 500-acre complex that would merge the jail, juvenile detention center, and city prison. Residents and City Council members, particularly Jimmy Peluso, are pushing to exclude historically redlined and predominantly Black neighborhoods. Officials promise a transparent, community-involved process, but concerns persist.
Khan family claims top Four Seasons penthouses; $14M permits.
One thing is certain: The new jail won’t be anywhere near the coming Four Seasons Hotel and Private Residences on the Northbank riverfront. That’s where Jacksonville Jaguars owner Shad Khan and his children will take up residence. They are slated for three of the Residences’ four penthouses. The city approved $14 million in permits for build-outs, with the largest—nearly $8 million—likely for Khan himself. His children, Shanna and Tony Khan, are also linked to the project through affiliated LLCs. The luxury development, slated for completion in 2027, is part of Khan’s broader revitalization plan for the area near EverBank Stadium.
Jacksonville University accreditation extended to 2033; warning lifted.
Jacksonville University has successfully retained its accreditation through 2033 after resolving concerns raised last year by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. The commission had placed JU “on warning” in 2024 over financial responsibility issues—the mildest form of sanction—but lifted that warning following a recent review. Interim Provost Sherri Jackson praised the university’s financial and operational improvements. Key reforms included program cuts, faculty layoffs, and strategic focus on high-demand areas. Accreditation is vital for JU to remain eligible for federal funding and aid.
MAD DADS Jacksonville dissolves, promises reboot under new leadership.
After more than two decades of advocacy for crime victims, the Jacksonville chapter of MAD DADS says it will cease operations at the end of this year. But a transition is already underway. Outreach coordinator A.J. Jordan says the group will soon reform with new leadership and a renewed mission to serve the community. Founder Donald Foy is retiring December 31 due to health reasons, and state records confirm the nonprofit is now listed as inactive. The chapter has long worked to engage neighborhoods and support families affected by violence.
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