In a recent government meeting, the Jacksonville City Council approved two significant land use amendments aimed at enhancing residential development in the area.

The first ordinance, 2024-0789, involves a small-scale land use amendment for approximately 9.94 acres on the north side of Jennings Road, transitioning from low-density residential to medium-density residential. This change will facilitate a multi-family residential development, strategically located near commercial nodes, including a Walmart and Home Depot. The Planning Department endorsed the proposal, highlighting its potential to diversify housing options and provide urban services. The Planning Commission had previously voted unanimously in favor of the amendment, with no opposition from the public.

The second ordinance, 2024-0790, seeks to rezone the same parcel from rural residential to a more conventional residential zoning district, RMDA, allowing for townhomes or single-family dwellings. This rezoning aligns with the city’s 2045 comprehensive plan, which emphasizes the need for varied housing types. The Planning Commission also approved this request unanimously, reinforcing the community's support for the development.

Additionally, the council addressed a zoning exception for a new restaurant, Electric Dough Pizza Company, to be located in the former San Marco movie theater. The establishment seeks a liquor license for on-premises consumption, which was also approved after confirming compliance with local regulations. Concerns regarding parking in the area were raised, but the council noted that the previous theater had sufficient capacity.

Lastly, a sign waiver was discussed for a law firm on Atlantic Boulevard, allowing a sign to remain closer to the property line than typically permitted. The council expressed the need for stricter adherence to approval processes in future cases to avoid similar situations where signs are installed before receiving necessary permits.

Overall, the meeting underscored the council's commitment to facilitating residential growth while addressing community concerns about infrastructure and compliance.