School board approves 25-year lease extension with city and restroom concept for Hickory Park

The Nassau County School Board voted Oct. 24 to extend a lease for Hickory Park across from Fernandina Beach High School and to approve the city's restroom concept plan.

Board counsel described the proposed agreement as a 25-year lease with an option for a five-year renewal, provided there are no defaults. Under the proposal the city would construct a restroom facility on the park property, carry insurance naming the district as an additional insured and maintain the building; the district would retain the right to approve final designs for improvements on district property. "This is the project that the board has discussed with the city commission now for, I think, 2 years," the board attorney said, describing the lease extension and the city's concept plans.

Staff confirmed the restroom design meets Department of Education requirements for placement on district property. The board member who raised usage and safety concerns said the facility would be an enhancement, noting children often use the property.

Board members also discussed operational details: the city would maintain the restroom and scheduling would not fall to the district; insurance and maintenance responsibilities were clarified in the presentation. The board approved the lease extension and restroom concept plan by a recorded vote (5-0).

Next steps: the city will proceed with its side of the project and construction consistent with the approved concept and required inspections. The district retains the right to approve final plans and will monitor the agreement terms during implementation.