Jacksonville’s City Council voted 17-1 Tuesday evening to approve an ordinance extending alcohol sales hours in designated downtown entertainment zones until 3 a.m., a move proponents say will invigorate the city’s core. Councilman Mike Gay was the sole dissenting vote.
The ordinance, which passed after months of debate, will affect approximately 63 businesses located within the North Core, Central Core, and the Sports and Entertainment District surrounding the stadium, according to reporting from News4JAX. Currently, Florida law generally requires alcohol sales to cease at 2 a.m.
Councilman Raul Arias, who introduced the bill, argued the change is necessary to foster a more vibrant downtown atmosphere. “Downtown, even though it’s not my district, it’s the heart of any city,” Arias stated during earlier council discussions. “This will be another step. It just brings light and energy to downtown.”
The legislation’s approval comes as Jacksonville has recently expanded options for outdoor dining, a trend city leaders believe complements the extended alcohol sales hours. Business owners have similarly voiced support, anticipating increased revenue and activity.
Concerns regarding potential increases in crime were raised during the council’s deliberations. Arias responded to these concerns by stating the city would examine successful mitigation strategies implemented in Tampa. Still, Councilman Gay indicated he had received opposition to the ordinance from members of the community, offering no further details on the nature of those concerns.
The ordinance will go into effect upon being signed by Mayor Donna Deegan. The Jacksonville Daily Record reported that Council member Ron Salem was absent during the Rules Committee vote on the legislation.
The City Council is scheduled to discuss further measures related to downtown development at its next meeting on March 10th, according to the city’s legislative calendar.
