Fernandina Beach moves forward with paid parking plan despite resident opposition

The Fernandina Beach City Commission has approved a plan to select a vendor for a proposed paid parking program in the city’s downtown area, despite strong opposition from many residents. The paid parking plan, introduced earlier this year, would charge for premier parking spots on select downtown streets. City officials estimate the program could generate about $2 million in revenue. However, the proposal has faced significant pushback from the community. At Monday night’s commission meeting, Vice Mayor Darron Ayscue voiced his opposition, emphasizing the public’s frustration.