Committee approves amendments to 5 Points special-district ordinance, defers final vote for more business outreach

The Neighborhoods Committee on Aug. 18 approved several amendments to ordinance 2025-0539, the proposed 5 Points special district (a business-improvement-style assessment district) but deferred a final committee vote so sponsors could gather additional documentation of business-owner support.

The ordinance would create a special district to fund enhanced cleaning, landscaping, lighting, ambassador programs and targeted security in the 5 Points commercial corridor. Proponents described the measure as a locally governed, merchant-led tool that would supplement — not replace — city services and keep the area “clean, safe and welcoming.”

Supporters from local business and neighborhood groups told the committee they backed the plan. "This ordinance is about keeping one of Jacksonville's most visited corridors clean, safe, and welcoming," said Casey Roth, with Riverside Avondale Preservation. Dory Thompson, president of the 5 Points Merchants Association, said merchant meetings and outreach showed broad interest and that short, regular assessments could fund private ambassadors and maintenance. "For $60 a month, your business…