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The debate over paid parking in Fernandina Beach, Florida, continues to evolve as city commissioners have decided to press on with their plans despite significant public opposition. The City Commission recently voted against an ordinance that would have prohibited paid parking both downtown and on local beaches, thus paving the way for a public vote on the matter in 2026.
Efforts to halt the introduction of paid parking gained substantial traction, with over 1,700 residents signing a petition demanding a referendum to block the initiative before its implementation. This petition obligated the commissioners to deliberate the proposed “no paid parking” ordinance, which ultimately failed to secure enough backing during its initial reading.
In an attempt to expedite a resolution, Vice Mayor Darron Ayscue proposed holding a special election, allowing voters to settle the issue sooner. However, this motion did not receive a second and consequently did not advance. According to the city charter, this inaction means the decision will automatically be put to a public vote, likely coinciding with the primary election in August 2026.
In the meantime, the commissioners have announced their intention to continue preparing for the paid parking rollout, signaling their commitment to move forward with the program despite the looming ballot initiative and ongoing public debate.
Despite the controversy, the commission plans to move forward with a paid parking program downtown.
Commissioner Tim Poynter told First Coast News the city hopes to finalize a management contract within the next month, with paid parking possibly beginning as early as January.
Tuesday’s meeting drew a packed crowd of residents, from business owners to longtime community members, voicing opposition to the parking proposal. Many said paid parking would damage the small-town charm of the historic district and hurt local shops.
“The citizens have spoken. People do not want paid parking,” one speaker said during public comment.
Another pleading, “Please be on our side. Please do not compromise the character of our community.”
Union leader and resident Marian Phelps criticized the commission for, in her words, ignoring voters’ wishes.
“We want the voters to decide paid parking, not four sitting commissioners,” she said.
Opponents argue that kiosks and parking fees along the beaches and downtown waterfront would discourage tourism and burden residents. City leaders, however, estimate the changes could generate up to $2 million a year to fund infrastructure improvements.
For now, officials say they will continue preparations for the paid parking rollout while the ballot initiative process moves forward. Fernandina Beach voters will have the final say when the referendum appears on the August 2026 ballot.
