In a surprising turn of events, the proposed liquor store location in Brentwood, Jacksonville has been transformed into a small business support center. This was announced by Mayor Donna Deegan during a luncheon, stating that the support center is expected to open in early fall and will focus on workforce development and entrepreneurship.
The City of Jacksonville purchased the property on Golfer Boulevard for $1.8 million in November after opposition from members of the Brentwood community who protested the liquor store due to its proximity to Kipp Voice Academy. Residents argued that a liquor store was inappropriate for the area, leading to the city’s decision to rezone the property for a support center.
In addition to the liquor store controversy, community members also opposed the construction of a new doctor’s office in the neighborhood. Despite these objections, next to the future support center, an infirmary is already under construction. News4JAKS is investigating whether there will be any changes to the plans for the doctor’s office in light of the new business center. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.