SJC News Archives

September

September 21, 2023 - Treaty of Moultrie Creek Ceremony – St. Johns County welcomed representatives of the Seminole Nation of Oklahoma and the Muscogee Creek Nation to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the Treaty of Moultrie Creek, signed in 1823 by the United States government and the Native American tribes indigenous to Florida. St. Johns County thanks the Seminole Nation of Oklahoma and the Muscogee (Creek) Nation for joining us at this historic remembrance. Treaty of Moultrie Creek Ceremony Video

September 20, 2023 - St. Johns County Approves Partnership with SJC Cultural Events, Inc. for the St. Augustine Amphitheatre and Ponte Vedra Concert Hall Operation and Management – At the St. Johns County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) regular meeting on Sept. 19, the BOCC unanimously approved a public-private partnership with SJC Cultural Events, Inc. (SJCCE). Effective Oct. 1, 2023, SJCCE will oversee the operation and management of the St. Augustine Amphitheatre and Ponte Vedra Concert Hall. Cultural Events Partnership | St. Augustine Amphitheatre Photo | Ponte Vedra Concert Hall Photo

September 20, 2023 - County-wide Vulnerability Assessment – St. Johns County will hold a public County-wide Vulnerability Assessment meeting on Friday, September 29, 2023, from 3:00pm to 5:00 pm, at the St. Johns County Auditorium located at 500 San Sebastian Vw., St. Augustine, FL 32084. We will give the community an opportunity to learn about the process of creating a vulnerability assessment, discuss the methods for developing the model scenarios, and give the public the opportunity to provide feedback to be considered during critical asset priority assignments.  Flood Facts Webpage

September 19, 2023 - St. Johns County Recognizes National Recovery Month – At the Sept. 19, 2023, St. Johns County Board of County Commissioners Regular Meeting Vice- Chair Sarah S. Arnold presented a proclamation to Discover and Recover St. Johns County representatives from recognizing September 2023 as National Recovery Month, encouraging relatives and friends of people with substance use and/or mental health conditions to implement preventive measures, recognize the signs of a problem, and guide those in need to appropriate treatment and recovery support services. National Recovery Month Proclamation - Press Release | Photo 1 | Photo 2

September 15, 2023 - St. Johns County to Temporarily Close South Ponte Vedra Park for Restoration Project – St. Johns County will temporarily close the South Ponte Vedra Park, located at 2993 S. Ponte Vedra Blvd., Ponte Vedra Beach, to complete a $305,529.63 restoration project from Sept. 18 to Sept. 28, 2023, weather permitting. South Ponte Vedra Park Closure Press Release | Coastal Projects

September 14, 2023 - St. Johns County to Host Public Meeting to Discuss Findings of Summer Haven Feasibility Study Draft Report – St. Johns County will host a public meeting to discuss the findings presented in the Summer Haven Feasibility Study draft report recently completed by the County’s contracted coastal engineering firm, INTERA-GEC. Summer Haven Feasibility Study Press Release | Summer Haven River Study Draft Report  | Public Comment Website | Coastal Projects Summer Haven

September 13, 2023 - World Golf Village Public Input Meetings – St. Johns County has announced that the public is invited to provide their input on the World Golf Village properties being vacated by the World Golf Foundation (WGF), at two public comment meetings scheduled for Sept. 27 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. and Sept. 28 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., at the St. Johns County Public Administration Building Auditorium, 500 San Sebastian View. Both meetings will be broadcast live and as video-on-demand on the County’s GTV broadcast online as well as to local subscribers of Comcast Cable and U-verse. To provide online input by Sept. 30 on potential future uses of the properties visit www.sjcfl.us/wgv.

September 13, 2023 - St. Johns County Hosts Successful Public Meeting for the Community to Vote on Hastings Community Center and Library Architectural Designs – St. Johns County hosted a successful public meeting on Sept. 12 at the W.E. Harris Community Center for attendees to review and vote on architectural design concepts for the Hastings Community Center and Library. Hastings Community Center and Library Meeting Press Release | Renderings | Presentation | YouTube Video Recording of Presentation

September 8, 2023 - St. Johns County Making Progress on 195 Capital Projects of $504 Million – At the St. Johns County Board of County Commission Meeting on Sept. 5, the new infrastructure delivery team presented an update on selected capital projects among the 195 projects either being designed or already under construction totaling more than $504 million in infrastructure improvements for the St. Johns County community. 195 Capital Projects Progress

September 8, 2023 - Ponte Vedra Zoning and Adjustment Board Public Hearing for Ponte Vedra Resort Scheduled for Sept. 11, 2023 – The Ponte Vedra Zoning and Adjustment Board (PVZAB) public hearing for PUD 2023-02 Ponte Vedra Resort is scheduled on Sept. 11, 2023, at the request of the applicant, Ponte Vedra Corporation. This meeting will begin at 11 a.m. in the St. Johns County Auditorium, located at 500 San Sebastian View. PVZAB Agenda

September 6, 2023 - St. Johns County to Host September 12 Public Meeting for Hastings Community Center and Library Architectural Designs – St. Johns County will host a public meeting for the planned community center and public library in Hastings on Sept. 12, at the W.E. Harris Community Center, located at 400 E. Harris St., Hastings. The meeting will begin at 6 p.m. with a presentation from the HBM Architects design team allowing the public to see several potential designs being considered. After the presentation, attendees will be able to vote on their favorite design. Staff from St. Johns County Public Works, St. Johns County Public Library System, and the HBM Architects design team will be available to answer questions and share details about the project. Those unable to attend the Sept. 12 meeting are invited to visit the current Hastings Library, located at 6195 S. Main St., Hastings, to vote on their favorite design before 7 p.m. on Tueday, Sept. 19.

Information presented at the meeting will be made available at www.sjcfl.us/Hastings to view renderings and more. The planned library and community center would feature a full-sized library, separate children’s collection room, outdoor children’s reading garden, large meeting and assembly rooms, Health and Human Services offices, drive-up book drop and more. Hastings Community Center and Library Meeting - Press Release

September 5, 2023 - St. Johns County Recognizes Hispanic Heritage Month – Chairman Christian Whitehurst presented the First Coast Hispanic Chamber of Commerce with a proclamation recognizing Sept. 15 to Oct. 15 as Hispanic Heritage Month at the September 5, 2023, Board of County Commissioners regular meeting. Hispanic Heritage Month Press Release | Photo 1 | Photo 2 | Photo 3

September 5, 2023 - St. Johns County Recognizes Constitution Week – Clerk Brandon J. Patty addressed the Board of County Commissioners at the Sept. 5, 2023, Board of County Commissioners regular meeting to discuss the 236th anniversary of the signing of the United States Constitution, which will take place on Sept. 17, 2023. Commissioner Roy Alaimo then presented a proclamation to Clerk Patty recognizing Sept. 17 to Sept. 23, 2023, as Constitution Week. Constitution Week Press Release | Photo 1

September 5, 2023 – St. Johns County Recognizes Library Card Sign-Up Month – Commissioner Krista Joseph presented St. Johns County Public Library System staff and supporters with a proclamation recognizing September as Library Card Sign-Up Month at the Sept. 5, 2023, Board of County Commissioners regular meeting. Library Card Sign-Up Month Press Release | Photo 1 | Photo 2 | Photo 3 | Photo 4

August

August 31, 2023 - American Rescue Plan Act Steering Committee Meeting – Notice is hereby given that the American Rescue Plan Act Steering Committee will hold a meeting on Wednesday, September 6, 2023, at 2:00pm. The meeting will take place at the United Way of St. Johns County offices located at 117 Bridge Street, St. Augustine, Florida 32084. Notice ot persons needing special accommodations and to all hearing impaired persons: In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, persons needing a special accommodation to participate in the proceedings should contact the ADA Coordinator, at (904) 209-0650 at the St. Johns County Administration Building, 500 San Sebastian View, St. Augustine, FL 32084. For hearing impaired individuals: Florida Relay Service: 1-800-955-8770.

August 31, 2023 - St. Johns County Labor Day Holiday Office Hours – All departments of the St. Johns County Board of County Commissioners, St. Johns County Administrative offices, library branches and bookmobiles, the Supervisor of Elections Office, the Property Appraiser’s Office, the Tax Collector’s Office, and the Clerk of Courts and County Comptroller’s Office will be closed Monday, Sept. 4, in observance of the Labor Day holiday.

August 31, 2023 - St. Johns County Offers Free Beach Shuttle Service for Labor Day Weekend – St. Johns County, in partnership with the Tourist Development Council, will offer a free shuttle service to the St. Johns County Ocean and Fishing Pier and Mickler’s Landing Beachfront Park from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 2, through Monday, Sept. 4, weather permitting. Free Beach Shuttle Service Labor Day Weekend

August 25, 2023 - St. Johns County Monitoring Vilano Road Closure – St. Johns County is aware a portion of Vilano Road that a Hyatt Place Hotel contractor was scheduled to close from Aug. 21 to Aug. 24 is still closed as of 3 p.m. today, Aug. 25. The portion of Vilano Road that is closed rests between Ava Way and Coastal Highway, indicated by the red line on the map below. Detour signage is posted in the area. The County is in active communication with the contractor to ensure the work is completed as soon as possible so the road can reopen. The project will create a pedestrian crossing on Vilano Road. Vilano Road Closure Map

August 25, 2023 - Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday Runs From Aug. 26 to Sept. 8 – As we move into the most active part of hurricane season, now is an excellent time to gather hurricane supplies. A Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday begins Saturday, Aug. 26, and runs through Sept. 8. Find a full list of tax-free items at FloridaRevenue.com/DisasterPrep. Disaster Sales Tax Holiday

August 24, 2023 - St. Johns County to Temporarily Close Riverdale Boat Ramp for Routine Dredging Project – St. Johns County will temporarily close the Riverdale Boat Ramp, located at 981 C.R. 13, Fruit Cove, from Sept. 5 to Sept. 15 to complete a routine dredging project. The scope of the project will result in a full closure of the boat ramp and some minor impacts to the parking and picnic areas of the park during this time. The County will post signage in the area before and during the project. Riverdale Boat Ramp Temporary Closure

August 24, 2023 - St. Johns County Utility Department Issues Retraction of Boil Water Notice for Northeast St. Johns County – A retraction notice has been issued to lift the precautionary boil water notice for St. Johns County Utility Department (SJCUD) customers along U.S. 1, located north of Stokes Landing, south of County Road 210 West, and along International Golf Parkway east of St. Marks Pond. This area includes but is not limited to the Twin Creeks, Beacon Lakes, Walden Chase, Palencia, Las Calinas, Florentine, and Kensington communities. Boil Water Notice Retraction

August 23, 2023 - St. Johns County to Host Public Meeting for Hastings Community Center and Library Architectural Designs – St. Johns County will host a public meeting for the planned community center and public library in Hastings on Aug. 31 at the W.E. Harris Community Center, located at 400 E. Harris St., Hastings. The meeting will begin at 6 p.m. with a presentation from the HBM Architects design team allowing the public to see several potential designs being considered. After the presentation, attendees will be able to vote on their favorite design. Staff from St. Johns County Public Works, St. Johns County Public Library System, and the HBM Architects design team will be available to answer questions and share details about the project. Information presented at the meeting will be made available at www.sjcfl.us/Hastings to view renderings and more. Those unable to attend the meeting are invited to visit the current Hastings Library, located at 6195 S. Main St., Hastings, to vote on their favorite design before 5 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 8. Hastings Community Center and Library Architectural Designs Meeting - Press Release

August 22, 2023 - St. Johns County Utility Department Issues Boil Water Notice for Northeast St. Johns County – Due to a damaged JEA water main on U.S. 1 in southern Duval County, customers in that area and Northeast St. Johns County are experiencing low-pressure water or water outages. St. Johns County Utility Department (SJCUD) customers along U.S. 1, located north of Stokes Landing, south of County Road 210 West, and along International Golf Parkway east of St. Marks Pond are served by this water main. Consequently, homes in this area are issued a boil water notice effective 3:30 p.m. This includes but is not limited to the Twin Creeks, Beacon Lakes, Walden Chase, Palencia, Las Calinas, Florentine, and Kensington communities.

More details about the boil water notice will be provided to customers later today. Customers with questions are encouraged to call SJCUD Customer Service at 904-209-2700. Customers will also be able to obtain more information via the boil water notice hotline at 904-209-2731.

JEA crews are working expeditiously to access and repair the damaged water main. A boil water notice has been issued for all JEA customers impacted by this outage. More information can be attained by visiting www.JEA.com/bwa. Boil Water Notice Issued for Northeast St. Johns County - Press Release  |  Map of Affected Area

August 21, 2023 - St. Johns County Emergency Management Deputy Director Kelly Wilson Advocates for Hurricane Preparedness on City of St. Augustine’s The Break Room Podcast – St. Johns County Emergency Management (SJCEM) Deputy Director Kelly Wilson recently appeared on The Break Room, the City of St. Augustine’s weekly podcast, to shed light on the critical role of Emergency Management in disaster preparedness, response, and recovery efforts as well as how residents can prepare before a storm arrives. Listen to the Hurricane Preparedness podcast  |  SJCEM Deputy Director Kelly Wilson Advocates for Hurricane Preparedness - Press Release  |  www.sjcemergencymanagement.com

August 18, 2023 - St. Johns County Opens County Administrator Position for Applications – The Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) contracted with GovHR USA, a local government recruitment and management consultant, to ensure a thorough, strategic national search is completed and a highly qualified pool of candidates is produced in a timely manner for the vacant County Administrator position. The County Administrator job posting, which includes the position description and qualifications, has been publicly posted today. Interested candidates can submit their resumes and cover letters to www.govhrusa.com. The position will remain open until Sept. 15, 2023, at 5 p.m. EDT. View the County Administrator recruitment video | County Administrator Position Open for Applications - Press Release

August 18, 2023 - City of St. Augustine Offers Free Parking and Shuttle Alternative During Sing Out Loud Event on Francis Field – On Friday, Sept. 22, and Saturday, Sept. 23, the Sing Out Loud Festival will host multiple performances on Francis Field as part of the month-long music festival, which necessitates the use of the Historic Downtown Parking Facility (HDPF) as part of the event’s emergency response plan to ensure public safety.

Free shuttle service will be provided to the Visitor Information Center from three parking locations:

For more information, visit the City of St. Augustine's website.

August 17, 2023 - St. Johns County Initiates Accessibility Movement to Create an Inclusive Destination – The St. Johns County Chamber of Commerce and its Ponte Vedra Visitors Information Center, St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra & The Beaches Visitors & Convention Bureau (VCB), in collaboration with Old Town Trolley Tours® & Attractions of St. Augustine, proudly announce their achievement as Certified Autism Centers™ (CAC). These certifications, granted by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), reflect the commitment of these organizations to welcome and support autistic and sensory-sensitive visitors. The certification program is funded with a matching grant from the St. Johns County Tourist Development Council. Chamber of Commerce Press Release | Video | Photo

August 16, 2023 - St. Johns County Reopens Wildwood Drive Ahead of Schedule After Completing Emergency Repairs – St. Johns County reopened Wildwood Drive today after completing emergency repairs to an underground drainage pipe ahead of schedule. St. Johns County temporarily closed Wildwood Drive on Aug. 8 and planned to reopen it on Aug. 18, but the tireless work of one of the County’s regular contractors, G&H Underground Construction, Inc., and St. Johns County staff completed the project two days early.

St. Johns County communicated with the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office, Fire Rescue, School Board Transportation, and other critical service providers prior to and during the closure to ensure County operations were coordinated.

“I am proud of our St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office, Public Works, Purchasing, and Public Affairs staff for collaborating on this, along with G&H Underground Construction team members for working so efficiently to safely complete this repair project ahead of schedule,” St. Johns County Public Works Director Greg Caldwell said. Wildwood Drive Reopens Ahead of Schedule - Press Release | Emergency Repairs Photo 1 | Photo 2 | Photo 3

August 15, 2023 - St. Johns County Planning and Zoning Agency Public Hearing for Ponte Vedra Resort Rescheduled to Sept. 21, 2023 – The St. Johns County Planning and Zoning Agency (PZA) public hearing for PUD 2023-02 Ponte Vedra Resort will be rescheduled to Sept. 21, 2023, at the request of the applicant, Ponte Vedra Corporation. This meeting will begin at 11 a.m. in the St. Johns County Auditorium, located at 500 San Sebastian View. Ponte Vedra Resort Public Hearing Rescheduled to Sept. 21 - Press Release

August 17, 2023 - St. Johns County to Auction Surplus Goods to Public on Aug. 19 – St. Johns County will auction its surplus goods to the public on Saturday, Aug. 19, at 2416 Dobbs Road, St. Augustine. Early preview will take place on Friday, Aug. 18, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The auction day preview will begin Saturday, Aug. 19, at 8 a.m. and the auction will officially begin at 10 a.m. Visit website to view list of items for auction. SJC Surplus Auction - Press Release

August 14, 2023 - St. Johns County Receives $100,000 Grant from Florida Department of Environmental Protection to Enhance Household Hazardous Waste Collection Program – At the Aug. 1, 2023, Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) regular meeting, the BOCC approved a resolution accepting a one-time $100,000 grant from the Florida Department of Environment Protection (FDEP) to enhance the St. Johns County Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Collection Program. St. Johns County will use the grant to help establish a processing facility for HHW materials collected from the community. The grant period runs from July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024. There are no matching funds required from St. Johns County. This grant is appropriated within the Solid Waste Fund. SJC Receives FL DEP $100,000 Grant to Enhance Household Hazardous Waste Collection Program - Press Release

August 9, 2023 - St. Johns County Seeking Volunteers for Beach Steward Program – St. Johns County is seeking volunteers to walk our beaches in all-weather conditions to remove debris and survey the wrack line (line of seaweed) for washback sea turtles. A washback sea turtle is a post-hatchling sea turtle slightly bigger than a hatchling, as it has already left its nest and traveled the ocean. Storms and certain wind conditions from August through November can push washback turtles back onto the beach. For more information on the program and to apply as a Beach Steward, please visit www.sjcfl.us/HCP/VolunteerWashback.aspx.

August 9, 2023 - St. Johns County Emergency Management Offers Public Safety Alert Service – St. Johns County Emergency Management (SJCEM) is using Nixle Alerts to provide another way for the public to stay updated with relevant information from the St. Johns County Emergency Operations Center. Any individual can text StJohnsEOC to 888777 to opt-in to receive notifications through SMS text messages. Nixle does not charge for this service, but carrier message and data rates may apply. Emergency Management Offers Nixel Alerts Public Safety Alert Service - Press Release

August 8, 2023 - St. Johns County Proceeds with Public Engagement for the Summer Haven River Study and Summerhouse Study – St. Johns County has released two new draft reports on the Summer Haven River Study website as a part of the public engagement process to address the impacts storms have had on the flow of the Summer Haven River and, in a separate report, the critical erosion at Summerhouse. The reports are available for download and public comment at https://bit.ly/SHRstudyPublicComments. St. Johns County is planning future public engagement meetings. Please check the St. Johns County Coastal Projects Summer Haven River Study page for project updates. Summer Haven River Study and Summerhouse Study - Press Release

August 7, 2023 - St. Johns County to Temporarily Close Wildwood Drive for Emergency Repairs to Drainage Pipe – St. Johns County will temporarily close Wildwood Drive from Tuesday, Aug. 8, to Friday, Aug. 18, weather permitting, for emergency repairs to an underground drainage pipe. The repairs will require a complete closure of Wildwood Drive at the location of the affected pipe, about 1,000 feet west of U.S. 1. Detours will be established with necessary signage to provide advanced warning and directions for roadway users. Wildwood Drive Temporary Closure - Press Release | Closure Map

August 4, 2023 - St. Johns County Beach Access Update – As part of the ongoing Butler Beach Reach portion of the FEMA Dune Enhancement Project, St. Johns County will close one vehicle beach access ramp and reopen another ramp in the area on Monday, Aug. 7. Separately, as part of the South Ponte Vedra and Vilano Beach Coastal Storm Risk Management (CSRM) Project, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) will temporarily close public parking at Surfside Park from Tuesday, Aug. 8, 2023, to March 2024 in the interest of public safety. The Surfside Park parking lot will be used as a staging area to store heavy equipment and materials during the beach renourishment project. Pedestrian access to the beach and the restroom facilities at Surfside Park will remain open to the public. Butler Beach Access Update | Butler Beach Reach Vehicle Ramp Closures Map | Surfside Park Closure Map | Army Corps of Engineers Project Webpage

August 3, 2023 - St. Johns County Moves Forward With Fiscal Year 2024 Budget and Millage Rates – The St. Johns County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) approved flat proposed millage rates for the upcoming fiscal year at the Aug. 1 regular meeting. It also established Sept. 5, 2023, at 5:01 p.m. at the County Auditorium, 500 San Sebastian View, as the date, time, and place for the first of two public hearings to adopt the Fiscal Year 2024 Budget. The public can view the Aug. 1 budget presentation to the BOCC at bit.ly/43UhBNU through the County's GTV web platform. Residents can participate in the recommended budget process by visiting www.sjcfl.us/omb and accessing the new interactive website link >> FY 2024 Recommended County Budget Presentation | Fiscal Year 2024 Budget and Millage Rates - Press Release

August 3, 2023 - Sing Out Loud Festival –The secret is out. Florida’s Historic Coast is the place to see live music this fall as the Sing Out Loud Festival welcomes headliners The Black Keys, Mumford & Sons, Lord Huron, Maggie Rogers, Yola, War Hippies, Elle King, Amos Lee, S.G. Goodman, Yonder Mountain String Band, Railroad Earth, Keller & Keels, and many other great performances. The multi-weekend festival features various artists at locales throughout St. Augustine and St. Johns County, Florida. www.SingOutLoudFestival.com

August 1, 2023 - Proclamation Recognizing St. Johns Housing Partnership’s 25 Years of Service – The St. Johns County Board of County Commissioners recognized St. Johns Housing Partnership’s 25 years of service to the community with a proclamation at the regular meeting on Aug. 1, 2023. St. Johns Housing Partnership’s 25 Years of Service

July

July 26, 2023 - St. Johns County Seeks Community Input on World Golf Village – St. Johns County announced that the public has an opportunity to provide their input on the properties being vacated by the World Golf Foundation (WGF), which include the World Golf Hall of Fame, IMAX Theater, PGA Tour Productions facility, as well as various parking lots and other property amenities. The public can visit www.sjcfl.us/wgv to learn more and to provide input on potential future uses of the properties. There will also be community engagement meetings announced for later this fall. SJC Seeks Community Input on World Golf Village - Press Release | WGV Public Involvement Website

July 26, 2023 - St. Augustine Gathering – The Florida Humanities Gathering is a heritage tourism program that explores the unique spirit and character of Florida’s cities and towns. In 2023, the annual gathering celebrates 50 years of preserving, promoting, and sharing Florida's history, literature, culture, and personal stories to offer residents a better understanding of themselves, their communities, and their state. From October 6-8, Florida Humanities will come to St. Augustine for this annual event. With the help of local artists, historians, and scholars, you will explore the arts, architecture, and history of America's oldest city. Register by September 1, 2023. St. Augustine Gathering

July 25, 2023 - St. Johns County Hosting Homeowner Outreach Meetings for Residents Seeking Home Elevation Grants – St. Johns County, in coordination with its consultant, Quality Engineering and Surveying (QES), will offer homeowner outreach meetings for residents interested in participating in the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) 2023 Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) funding application submittal. Homeowner Outreach Meetings for Residents Seeking Home Elevation Grants

July 24, 2023 - Butler Beach Reach FEMA Dune Enhancement Project Update – As part of the ongoing Butler Beach Reach portion of the FEMA Dune Enhancement Project, St. Johns County will close one vehicle beach access ramp and reopen two more ramps in the area later this week. Butler Beach Reach FEMA Dune Enhancement Project Update  |  Butler Beach Reach Vehicle Ramp Closures Map  |  Project Webpage

July 21, 2023 - St. Johns County Presents Hall of Fame Plaque of the Late Eddie Lee Vickers to Wife Barbara Vickers – Today, St. Johns County Parks and Recreation (SJCPAR) Director Ryan Kane, Assistant Director Jamie Baccari, Administrative Assistant Lauren Trice, City of St. Augustine Commissioner Cynthia Garris, and artist Lenny Foster presented the SJCPAR Hall of Fame plaque of the late Eddie Lee Vickers to his wife Barbara Vickers. SJC Presents Hall of Fame Plaque of the Late Eddie Lee Vickers to Wife Barbara Vickers | Photo 1 | Photo 2 | Photo 3

July 20, 2023 – St. Johns County Hosted the Leadership Class From the St. Johns County Chamber of Commerce to Learn More About County Government Operations and Programs. St. Johns Board of County Commission Chairman Christian Whitehurst and Interim County Administrator Joy Andrews welcomed the class and offered insights into the county services and current community projects. The leadership class consisted of business professionals from various industries and companies that made up the economy of St. Johns County. The Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership St. Johns (LSJ) program strives to connect and develop community leaders to help drive the success of our local economy as St. Johns County confronts the opportunities and challenges of today and tomorrow. Since 2000, more than 400 St. Johns County leaders have graduated from Leadership St. Johns. St. Johns County’s business, political and non-profit community ranks include many Leadership St. Johns alumni who have and continue to make a positive difference.  The LSJ program provides a way to recognize talented individuals within your organization who might benefit from the Leadership St. Johns experience and who can utilize this opportunity to advance your organization’s goals. The strong personal and professional connections that class members make during the program year are invaluable. For more information regarding Leadership St. Johns, please contact Bob Porter, Vice President of Public Policy and LSJ Program Director, at (904) 687-2049 or email bob.porter@sjcchamber.com. Leadership Class Photo 1 | Photo 2 | Photo 3

July 18, 2023 - St. Johns County Commissioners Select Joy Andrews Interim County Administrator – St. Johns County Board of County Commission (BOCC) accepted the written resignation from former County Administrator Hunter Conrad and a separation agreement effective June 29, and appointed Deputy County Administrator Joy Andrews the Interim County Administrator as they begin a national search for a new County Administrator. Commissioners Select Joy Andrews as Interim County Administrator

July 20, 2023 - St. Johns County Pet Center to Host Hot Diggity Dog Day – The St. Johns County Pet Center, located at 130 N. Stratton Road, St. Augustine, invites the public to come out for Hot Diggity Dog Day on Saturday, July 22, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Attendees will be able to grab a hot dog and adopt a pet. On average, more than 700 pets are adopted from the St. Johns County Pet Center each year. Hot Diggity Dog Day  |  SJC Pet Center / Animal Control

July 20, 2023 - Team UP Hastings to Host 5th Annual Community FOCUS Back-to-School Event – The St. Johns County Hastings Branch Library, St. Johns County Parks and Recreation, and Team UP Hastings are hosting the 12th Annual School Supply Giveaway at the 5th Annual “Community FOCUS Hastings” event from 9 to 11 a.m. on Saturday, July 22. The event will take place at Al Wilke Park, 6140 S. Main Street, and the Hastings Branch Library, 6195 S. Main Street. Features include a Touch-a-Truck event, Community Resources Fair, school readiness immunizations, and sports and preschool physicals. For more information, please call the Hastings Branch Library at 904-827-6970. Team UP Hastings Back-to-School Event

July 14, 2023 - Overnight Detours Planned Next Week at I-95 and State Road 16 Interchange – As part of resurfacing improvements on I-95 from State Road 207 to International Golf Parkway, overnight closures of the I-95 at State Road 16 exit and entry ramps are necessary for drainage work and barrier wall installation. Overnight closures begin July 18 at 8 p.m. Overnight Detours Planned I-95 and State Road 16 Interchange

July 13, 2023 - St. Johns County to Host Open House for Kings Estate Road Corridor Improvement Project – St. Johns County is hosting an open house on July 20 regarding the planned improvement project for the Kings Estate Road Corridor. Improvements will include travel lanes at 12 feet in width, five-foot paved shoulders, two-foot wide curb and gutters, sidewalks on both sides of the roadway, and stormwater drainage. Kings Estate Road Project  |  Project Map

July 12, 2023 - St. Johns County Surveys Hastings Area on Community Center and Library Design – St. Johns County is inviting the Hastings community to participate in a survey to offer their feedback on proposed exterior designs of the new Hastings Community Center and Library at www.sjcfl.us/Hastings by July 31, 2023. The survey can also be printed and submitted in person at the current Hastings Library, 6195 S. Main Street.  Hastings Community Center and Library Design - Press Release

July 6, 2023 - St. Johns Board of County Commission Chairman Christian Whitehurst was the guest on the monthly St. Johns County Today radio show hosted by WSOS 103.9 FM. Chairman Whitehurst discussed growth management issues, budgeting and capital improvement projects with show host Kevin Geddings. The program also featured Chairman Whitehurst updating the community on the County’s efforts on workforce housing and chatting with Beth Tate, the Chair of the Public Policy Committee for the St. Johns County Chamber of Commerce. Chairman Whitehurst - SJC Today - July 6, 2023 - Photo 1 | Photo 2 | Photo 3

July 6, 2023 - St. Johns County to Host Open House for Woodlawn Road Improvement Project – St. Johns County is hosting an open house regarding the planned improvement project for Woodlawn Road on Monday, July 10. This project will provide road improvements including uniform lane widths, paved shoulders, and sidewalks on both sides of Woodlawn Road. Woodlawn Road Project Open House  |  Project 3D Visual  |  Project Limits

July 5, 2023 - Two Vehicle Beach Access Ramps to Temporarily Close for Butler Beach Reach FEMA Dune Enhancement Project – St. Johns County will begin to temporarily close two vehicle beach access ramps to Butler Beach Reach as a part of a comprehensive FEMA Dune Enhancement Project. Ocean Trace Road and A Street Vehicle Beach Access Closures  |  Beach Access Closures Press Release  |  Closure Map  |  Beach Ramp Closure - Action News

June

June 29, 2023 - Overnight Detours Planned Next Week at I-95 and State Road 16 Interchange – As part of resurfacing improvements on I-95 from State Road 207 to International Golf Parkway, overnight closures of the I-95 at State Road 16 exit and entry ramps are necessary for drainage work and barrier wall installation. Overnight closures begin July 5 at 8 p.m. Overnight Detours Planned I-95 and State Road 16 Interchange

June 29, 2023 - St. Johns County Administrator Hunter Conrad Submits Resignation – St. Johns County Board of County Commission (BOCC) has received a written resignation from County Administrator Hunter Conrad. The BOCC will review the resignation and discuss a separation agreement at the July 18 BOCC Regular Meeting scheduled for 9 a.m. before voting on the terms of those documents. The BOCC Special Meeting scheduled for June 30, 2 p.m. has been canceled to provide ample time for review of Conrad’s resignation and a separation agreement. County Administrator Hunter Conrad Submits Resignation

June 29, 2023 - St. Johns County Board of County Commissioners Special Meeting Cancelled – The Special Meeting of the Board of County Commissioners scheduled for June 30, 2023, which was scheduled to begin at 2:00 p.m. in the County Auditorium located in the County Administration Building, 500 San Sebastian View, St. Augustine, FL, has been cancelled.

June 28, 2023 - Palm Valley Road Sidewalk Construction Begins – St. Johns County and the Palm Valley Community Association (PVCA) are proud to announce that Palm Valley Road Sidewalk construction has begun. This project will fill the sidewalk gaps along the west side of Palm Valley Road from Landrum Road to the State Road A1A intersection. Palm Valley Road Sidewalk Construction Begins

June 28, 2023 - St. Johns County Independence Day Holiday Office Hours – All non-emergency St. Johns County government offices and libraries will be closed Tuesday, July 4, in observance of the Independence Day holiday. All offices and libraries will resume standard business hours on Wednesday, July 5. SJC Holiday Hours

June 27, 2023 - St. Johns County Offers Free Beach Shuttle Service for Independence Day Weekend – The Independence Day holiday weekend is one of the busiest times on St. Johns County's beaches. St. Johns County, in partnership with the Tourist Development Council, will offer a free shuttle service to Mickler's Landing Beachfront Park and the St. Johns County Ocean and Fishing Pier from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, July 1, through Tuesday, July 4, weather permitting. Independence Day Weekend Free Beach Shuttle Service  |  SJC Beaches Annoucements

June 26, 2023 - Boating Club Road Boat Ramp to Temporarily Close for Improvement Project – St. Johns County will temporarily close the Boating Club Boat Ramp, located at 615 Boating Club Road, St. Augustine, to complete an improvement project from July 5 to August 6, 2023, weather permitting. The improvement project will increase the elevation of the approach to the existing boat ramp and improve existing swales for more efficient drainage during high tide conditions. Alternate Boat Ramps  |  Boating Club Road Boat Ramp Closure - Press Release

June 26, 2023 - St. Johns County to Host Butler Beach Reach FEMA Dune Enhancement Project Pre-Construction Meeting – St. Johns County Coastal Management will host a public meeting on Thursday, June 29, 5 to 6:30 p.m. at the Anastasia Island Branch Library to discuss the upcoming FEMA Dune Enhancement Project for Butler Beach Reach. The County selected Phillips and Jordan, Inc. (P&J) to complete the project. P&J notified the County it plans to begin construction after the Independence Day weekend. P&J estimated the project should take about a month to complete, weather permitting. Butler Beach Reach FEMA Dune Enhancement Project Pre-Construction Meeting

June 23, 2023 - St. Johns County Fire Rescue Unveils New Branding  – St. Johns County Fire Rescue (SJCFR) is celebrating its 25th anniversary serving the St. Johns County community in 2023. As SJCFR reflects on a quarter-century of unwavering dedication to public health and safety, it is eager to enter a new era focused on meeting the needs of St. Johns County. Today, SJCFR is proud to unveil the new Fire Rescue logo. Fire Rescue Unveils New Branding - Press Release   |  Branding Informational Video  |  SJCFR Annual Report  |  SJCFR History

June 23, 2023 – St. Johns County Parks and Recreation to Temporarily Close Rock Springs Farms County Park – St. Johns County Parks and Recreation will temporarily close Rock Springs Farms County Park, which is located within the Rock Springs Farms community at 7085 U.S. 1 S., St. Augustine, effective immediately. A reopening date will be announced once it is available. For more information, please call Parks and Recreation at 904-209-0333.

June 22, 2023 - St. Johns County Parks and Recreation Inducts Eddie Lee Vickers into Hall of Fame – St. Johns County Parks and Recreation celebrated the career of the late Eddie Lee Vickers by inducting him into the SJC Parks & Recreation Hall of Fame. The Board of County Commissioners also issued a proclamation recognizing July as Parks & Recreation Month. Parks & Rec Inducts Eddie Lee Vickers to Hall of Fame

June 21, 2023 - St. Johns County Fire Rescue Recognizes Gabriel Caez and Kyle Atwater for Life-Saving Efforts – On April 21, 2023, St. Johns County residents Gabriel Caez and Kyle Atwater helped save the lives of several people involved in a motor vehicle accident while driving on International Golf Parkway. They found a multi-vehicle accident with multiple occupants injured including one vehicle that was on fire and a second vehicle that had rolled over. Their heroic efforts aided St. Johns County Fire Rescue in responding at the scene. In recognition of their actions, Gabriel and Kyle were presented with a Certificate of Commendation by St. Johns County Fire Rescue Chief Scott Bullard and Operations Chief Patrick Welch at the June 20, 2023, St. Johns County Board of County Commissioners meeting. Fire Rescue Recognizes Citizens for Life-Saving Efforts  |  ‘You have to stop, you have to help:’ 2 St. Johns County teens recognized for helping save lives – Action News Jax

June 20, 2023 - St. Johns County Reduces Water and Wastewater Customer Usage Rates by 3% – The St. Johns County Board of County Commissioners approved a resolution on June 20, 2023, for a 3% reduction in customer usage rates for water and wastewater provided by the St. Johns County Utility Department (SJCUD). Overall, about 90% of water customers could see a decrease in their monthly bill. SJCUD is a non-profit utility and serves approximately 54,000 water customer accounts and 45,000 wastewater customer accounts. The usage rate reduction goes into effect on July 1, 2023. Water and Wastewater Rate Reduction

June 19, 2023 - St. Johns County to Host Open House for Planned Hastings Community Center and Library – St. Johns County is hosting an open house regarding the planned community center and public library in Hastings on Thursday, June 29, 2023. Hastings Community Center Open House

June 16, 2023 - St. Johns County Pier Gift Shop to Temporarily Close for Maintenance – St. Johns County will temporarily close the St. Johns County Pier Gift Shop, located at 350 A1A Beach Blvd., St. Augustine Beach, for maintenance June 19-21, 2023. It will reopen Thursday, June 22. The St. Johns County Ocean and Fishing Pier and its parking lot will remain open during normal business hours. Pier Gift Shop Closure June 19-21

June 16, 2023 - Dondanville Vehicular Beach Access Ramp to Temporarily Close – Dondanville Road will be closed for vehicular beach access due to repair work at Anastasia Condos, located at 2 Dondanville Road, from June 19-20, 2023. A private contractor will utilize heavy construction equipment on Dondanville Road to repair the roof at Anastasia Condos. Due to the work on the building and the amount of equipment, the road will be closed, blocking vehicular beach access. Parks and Recreation worked with the private contractor to ensure the work would take no more than two days. To view alternate vehicular beach access ramp locations in St. Johns County, please visit Beach Access.

June 15, 2023 - St. Johns County Receives Record $59 Million in State of Florida Appropriations – St. Johns County announced it received $59 million in appropriations from the State of Florida after Governor Ron DeSantis signed the Fiscal Year 2023-24 budget into law. It is the largest amount of state appropriations the St. Johns County government has ever received and surpasses the $12.4 million appropriated last year. SJC $59 Million in State of Florida Appropriations

June 9, 2023 - Senator Rick Scott Joins County and City Officials to Promote Hurricane Preparedness – Senator Rick Scott, City of St. Augustine Mayor Nancy Sikes-Kline, St. Johns County Sheriff's Office Lt. Keith Oke, St. Augustine Police Department Assistant Chief Anthony Cuthbert, and St. Johns County Emergency Management Deputy Director Kelly Wilson spoke to media this afternoon in St. Augustine on the importance of being prepared for hurricane season, which runs from June 1 to Nov. 30. Senator Rick Scott Promotes Hurricane Preparedness

June 7, 2023 – St. Johns County Reaffirms Commitment to Hastings, Hosts Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony for Wastewater Treatment Plant After $6.76 Million Upgrades – St. Johns County hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the newly upgraded Hastings Wastewater Treatment Plant today. The facility recently received $6.76 million in improvements funded by Community Development Block Grant – Disaster Recovery funds allocated to St. Johns County by the State of Florida Department of Economic Opportunity as a result of damages from Hurricane Matthew. The improvements replaced and upgraded assets at the plant to provide additional capacity to handle peak flows due to storm events, raised critical equipment above the flood elevation, and improved reliability and redundancy for maintenance and emergency response activities.

“We have not only elevated the tanks and critical equipment above flood elevations – but we have raised hope in the Hastings community that they are important and their needs for safe wastewater services are being met by St. Johns County,” said St. Johns County District 3 Commissioner Roy Alaimo. Wastewater Treatment Plant Ribbon Cutting Press Release  |  Ribbon Cutting Video

June 2, 2023 - St. Johns County's 2023 Hurricane Preparedness Guide is Available Now – The 2023 Atlantic hurricane season is underway, running from June 1 to Nov. 30. St. Johns County Emergency Management’s 2023 Hurricane Preparedness Guide is available to the public. Visit www.sjcemergencymanagement.com for more preparedness information. 2023 Hurricane Season - Press Release  |  Hurricane Preparedness Video

May

May 20, 2023 - St. Johns Board of County Commission Chairman Christian Whitehurst was a featured panelist at the St. Johns County Chamber of Commerce annual Legislative Update Breakfast. He gave a preview of St. John’s County legislative lobbying efforts for state funding of transportation projects and beach restoration programs. He was joined by Representative Cyndi Stevenson, St. Augustine Mayor Nancy Sikes-Kline and St. Augustine Beach Mayor Don Samora. In June, St. Johns County would announce it received $59 million in appropriations from the State of Florida after Governor Ron DeSantis signed the Fiscal Year 2023-24 budget into law. It is the largest amount of state appropriations the St. Johns County government has ever received and surpasses the $12.4 million appropriated last year. SJC $59 Million in State of Florida Appropriations | Photo 1 | Photo 2

May 19, 2023 - St. Johns County Names Scott Bullard as Fire Chief – St. Johns County is announcing that Scott Bullard has been named Fire Chief for St. Johns County Fire Rescue. Bullard has served as Interim Fire Chief since Chief Jeffrey Prevatt retired in December 2022. Fire Chief Announcement - Press Release

May 16, 2023 - Certificate of Remembrance for the Family of Tristyn Bailey – The St. Johns County Board of County Commissioners presented a certificate of remembrance to the family of Tristyn Bailey at the May 16, 2023, Board meeting. Tristyn Bailey Remembrance - Press Release 

May 16, 2023 - Proclamation Recognizing National EMS Week – The St. Johns County Board of County Commissioners presented a proclamation recognizing May 21-27, 2023, as National Emergency Medical Services Week at the May 16, 2023, Board meeting. National EMS Week - Press Release  |  Video Presentation

May 16, 2023 - Proclamation Recognizing Water Safety Month – The St. Johns County Board of County Commissioners presented a proclamation recognizing May as Water Safety Month at the May 16, 2023, Board meeting. Click here to read the full proclamation and view a photo of the presentation. Water Safety Month - Press Release  |  Video Presentation

May 16, 2023 - Proclamation Recognizing National Historic Preservation Month – The St. Johns County Board of County Commissioners presented a proclamation recognizing May as National Historic Preservation Month at the May 16, 2023, Board meeting. National Historic Preservation Month  |  Social Media Video Featuring Brandon J. Patty, St. Johns County Clerk of Courts

May 2, 2023 - St. Johns County Launches New Brand – Florida at First Sight – St. Johns County is pleased to announce the launch of a new countywide brand developed to showcase and reflect the unique assets of the community. The new brand, created based on extensive community research, highlights the attributes that make St. Johns County unique, including its waterways, natural resources, history, and abundant opportunities for outdoor activities. New Branding Presentation  |  Full Press Release

April

April 18, 2023 - St. Johns County, United Way of St. Johns County Announce ARPA Partner Agencies – The St. Johns County Board of County Commissioners allocated more than $7 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding to United Way of St. Johns County to assist local nonprofit agencies in expanding social services as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. This partnership allowed organizations within St. Johns County to apply for funding to assist individuals in the community who were negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. ARPA Program and Funding Information full press release.

April 17, 2023 - Sea Turtle Nesting Season – Sea turtle nesting season begins May 1, and St. Johns County officials are asking residents, visitors, and businesses to help protect natural habitat by observing all nesting season laws and regulations. The beaches of St. Johns County are home to several species of endangered or threatened sea turtles. From May 1 to Oct. 31, St. Johns County staff will close vehicular beach access gates at 7:30 p.m. and reopen them at 8 a.m. to allow nesting sea turtles to have a safe beach throughout the night. Sea Turtle Nesting Season Guidelines

April 11, 2023 - Florida Libraries Launch Local Author Contest – The St. Johns County Public Library System is pleased to join in the announcement of the sixth annual Florida Author Project contest. Submissions will be accepted through May 31, 2023. Local Author Project Contest Details

March

March 2, 2023 - St. Johns County Transportation Summit – St. Johns County staff provided a presentation focused on strategic transportation infrastructure funding needs throughout St. Johns County. Transportation Roadmap and Projects  |  St. Johns Safe Rail Project Fact Sheet  |  State Road 16 to North-South Corridor Project Fact Sheet

January

January 23, 2023 - St. Johns County Launches Recycle Coach – Recycle Coach is live! We have teamed up with Recycle Coach to help educate our residents on proper recycling! By downloading the Recycle Coach app or visiting recyclestjohns.com, you can get your curbside collection schedule, sign up for alerts, and quickly learn how to dispose of different waste materials properly.