In a recent development, the Jacksonville Beach City Council unanimously voted against a proposed crowd ordinance aimed at suspending permits for special events. This decision comes following concerns voiced by several speakers during the council meeting, primarily regarding the need for increased support for policing and safety measures.

Background: Proposal and Concerns

The proposed ordinance, which sought to temporarily halt the issuance of permits for special events, was prompted by a series of unrelated shootings that occurred on St. Patrick’s Day in Jacksonville Beach. These incidents were linked to large gatherings, including boxing matches, 7-on-7 football games, and a contest promoting excessive drinking, all of which were advertised online. According to police reports, these events attracted around 400 teenagers to the area, despite not requiring permits under existing regulations.

Council Response and Considerations

Following the shootings in March, City Council Member Greg Sutton proposed an ordinance to ban gatherings of 50 or more people without a permit. While this idea was discussed during a council meeting, the current proposal focuses on temporarily suspending permits for special events altogether. The aim is to allow the city to implement more stringent safety measures and review existing policies related to large public gatherings, with the objective of reducing potential risks associated with such events.

Future Steps and Public Engagement

The decision regarding the proposed ordinance is pending further discussion and analysis by Jacksonville Beach city leaders. The first reading of the ordinance is scheduled to take place during a city council meeting at 6 p.m. on Monday. Action News Jax reached out to the Jacksonville Beach City Mayor for comment, but she declined to provide a statement until after the council has deliberated on the matter.

Conclusion: Prioritizing Safety Measures

As the Jacksonville Beach City Council deliberates on the proposed crowd ordinance, the focus remains on ensuring the safety and well-being of residents and visitors alike. With recent incidents highlighting the potential risks associated with large gatherings, city leaders are actively exploring measures to enhance safety protocols and mitigate future challenges.

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