NewsLine staff
Q: Why did you vote against paid parking downtown?
A: Citizens brought many good ideas forward. The commission has yet to identify how paid parking revenue will generate the funds needed for the wanted capital projects nor if the citizens would even want to see those projects happen. A general obligation bond that is tied specifically to a project would give the commission the answer of whether or not the citizens believe debt is needed to fund certain projects. In short, the commission could simply let the people vote on any debt.
Q: What are your priorities for 2026?
A: The state law known as “Live Local” is here to stay. Fernandina Beach and Amelia Island cannot handle the amount of density “Live Local” brings. We, as a commission, are going to have to find creative ways to entice and incentivize property owners to build smart. Sticking our head in the sand on local development has the potential to have dire consequences. I do not believe our codes will protect us enough and we should be considering PUDs (Planned Unit Development) in certain areas so we can most effectively limit the effects of large residential projects.
Q: How do you engage with residents and incorporate their feedback?
A: I engage residents through a variety of forms. I’m responsive to emails, I will actively seek expert opinions on subjects and in general, I am out in the public. I ensure their feedback is reflected in the votes, simply by engaging with more than just a handful of people through a variety of mediums. As Coach Deion Sanders says, “I ain’t hard to find.”
Q: What do you want residents to know about the commission’s direction?
A: I have no idea what direction this commission is taking the city. This commission has spent a full year leaving the city paralyzed over paid parking. Other than the budgeted maintenance projects, I haven’t seen any meaningful steps forward. I credit this commission with voting for a tax increase and dividing the city residents over paid parking as its most meaningful accomplishments, both of which I have voted against.
Darron Ayscue represents Seat 5 and serves as Vice Mayor of the Fernandina Beach City Commission. Questions or comments can be directed to him at dayscue@fbfl.org or (904) 780-4480.
