Inching closer to a solution on downtown newsracks

Submitted by Suanne Z. Thamm
Reporter – News Analyst
December 7, 2017 9:30 a.m.

Close, but no cigar. The Fernandina Beach City Commission (FBCC) considered Ordinance 2017-23 on second reading. This ordinance would limit the design and placement of newsracks in the Centre Street Historic District. But the ordinance will need a third reading before it can be approved.

In response to questions posed by City Attorney Tammi Bach, commissioners reaffirmed the decision of the Main Street Design Group that the newsracks should be painted black and restricted to certain locations downtown. Commissioners agreed to the design approved at the previous reading of the ordinance.

Commissioner John Miller expressed sympathy with Fernandina Beach News Leader publisher Foy Maloy’s concern over the cost to repaint existing boxes, currently painted Park Bench Green. He claimed it would cost $600 per box to repaint them. Interim Main Street Executive Director Arlene Filkoff stepped forward to commit volunteer resources from that program to lower the repainting costs.

Commissioner Roy Smith asked if the News Leader would need to get a permit for each newsrack. Bach said that only one permit would be needed.

Commissioners also agreed to allow for an 18-month phase-in period to complete the repainting, while allowing that location requirements in the ordinance would be effective immediately. Any newsracks not in compliance, regardless of owner, by the end of the 18 month period would be subject to removal by the city.

The ordinance will return for a third reading specifying design and color, as well as a phase-in period.

For additional information on the ordinance and the newsrack problem, see https://fernandinaobserver.com/2017/10/05/they-serve-no-whine-before-its-time/ and https://fernandinaobserver.com/2017/05/31/pimples-on-the-face-of-paradise-centre-street-news-racks/ .