Judge Dismisses Challenge to Fernandina Beach Paid Parking Plan

FERNANDINA BEACH, Fla. — A Nassau County judge has dismissed a citizen-led lawsuit seeking to block a paid parking program planned for Fernandina Beach’s historic downtown, clearing the way for city commissioners to vote on the proposal this week.

Judge’s Ruling

Circuit Court Judge Marianne Aho issued the dismissal Wednesday, less than a week before the Fernandina Beach City Commission is scheduled to hold a final vote on an ordinance that would allow paid parking to begin this spring. The judge ruled that the lawsuit was premature and barred by separation-of-powers principles.

The lawsuit was filed just over two months ago by Citizens Against Paid Parking, a political action committee opposing the plan. The judge said the group could refile its challenge after the commission formally approves the ordinance.

A hearing that had been scheduled for Monday on the group’s request for a temporary injunction was canceled following the ruling.

Response From Opponents

Citizens Against Paid Parking said the case was dismissed on a technicality. “The court can’t rule on legal matters that don’t yet exist,” the group said in a statement. “The No Paid Parking injunction process is still strong, just delayed by legal technicalities."

What the Plan Includes

The proposed ordinance is scheduled for its second and final reading at a City Commission meeting at 6 p.m. Tuesday. If approved, paid parking could begin later this spring.

Under the plan, paid parking would apply to all public lots and on-street spaces from Ash Street to Alachua Street and from Front Street east to, but not including, Eighth Street. Public parking lots at the marina would also be included.

There would be no physical parking meters. Instead, signs would direct drivers to pay through a smartphone app, according to city officials. Residents and property owners within city limits would be eligible for two free annual parking permits, with additional permits available for $24 each. The plan also includes a 20-minute grace period for short stops.

Revenue and Next Steps

City leaders have said paid parking is part of a broader effort to find revenue sources other than taxes. Fernandina Beach’s population has grown from about 7,800 in the 1970s to more than 13,900 today. A city report estimated the program could generate between $1.5 million and $2.5 million annually.

Officials have said the revenue could help fund major projects, including a $20 million to $25 million seawall, demolition of Brett’s Waterway Cafe to expand marina docks, and repairs to aging downtown infrastructure.

Opponents argue the plan could hurt downtown businesses that rely on easy, free parking.

Even if the ordinance passes Tuesday, the issue may not be settled. A voter referendum scheduled for mid-August will allow residents to decide whether paid parking should continue.