Jacksonville City Council Meeting Highlights: Outdoor Recreation Park Approved to Move Forward to Seek Additional Funding

• Discussions were held on if dates and times would work.

• Chief Marcus Wood discussed a proposed ordinance for e-scooters, noting that he is considering removing a clause that restricts e-scooter usage to those with geofencing technology. He believes this restriction could unfairly prevent individuals from using their own personal e-scooters. The Chief suggested revising the ordinance to be less restrictive, particularly by removing the geofencing requirement.He also mentioned other updates to the ordinance, including prohibiting e-scooter use on Pelham Road and Nesbitt Street, requiring riders to use sidewalks where available, and mandating that e-scooter riders wear helmets meeting specific safety standards (American, Canadian, or Snell). The revised ordinance would also ensure that all riders, including those on bicycles, are required to wear appropriate protective gear.

• Brenda Long addressed the need to review and possibly update the salaries for the mayor and council members, noting that their salaries have not increased since 2016. She provided information on current salaries and mentioned that there could be additional benefits if the council chooses to implement them. She emphasized that any changes to the salaries must be made at least six months before the next election to avoid complications during the election season.Long also discussed the municipal election qualifying fees, which have been set at $25 since 1984. She highlighted that the fees could be increased to a maximum of $50, and different fees could be set for the mayor and council members. She provided sample ordinances for potential increases and noted the need to address these changes before the election qualifying period begins.

  Additionally, Long mentioned the potential need to find a new polling place, as the current location might not be available next year. She advised that these decisions should be made proactively rather than waiting until the last minute to ensure everything is properly managed and budgeted.

• Janis Burns, representing Patricia who is currently away, discussed the city’s initiative to secure an outdoor fitness court through a grant. The city has been awarded a $50,000 grant for this project under the 2024 initiative. To proceed, the council needs to pass a resolution supporting the next steps in securing additional funds. Patricia has already applied for an additional $125,000 in grants but is still awaiting responses.Burns clarified that passing the resolution does not obligate the city to fund the project if additional grants are not secured. The total funding needed is approximately $157,000, which includes $110,000 from local matches and $47,000 for a concrete base. The resolution would allow the city to move forward with the project while seeking further sponsorships and grants. If the city does not secure the additional funds, there is no financial penalty, and the city would only forfeit the $50,000 grant without further liability.

• Safety and Health: Emphasized the improved safety for citizens and health benefits from increased walking and exercise.
• Educational Value: Noted that the trail will provide educational opportunities for students. It will allow them to visit local police and fire departments, learn about community roles, and understand the importance of these services.
• Science Standards: The trail will also enable students to explore and learn about local ecosystems and environmental science, including observing various living creatures and understanding ecosystem dynamics.

Watson concluded by praising the project as a valuable resource for Jackson City schools and its students.