ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. – The first Black history museum to call Florida its home is closer to becoming a reality in St. Johns County.
The Florida Senate Committee on Community Affairs voted to approve SB 466 on Tuesday, a bill supporting St. Johns County’s efforts to secure the Florida Museum of Black History.
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The bill allows for the creation of the museum’s board of directors, including a selection process for board members.
“I am beyond excited about the decision by the Community Affairs Committee,” said District 2 Commissioner Sarah Arnold.
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It also directs the board to oversee the museum’s commission, construction, operation, and administration. The Foundation for the Museum of Black History, Inc. and the St. Johns County Board of County Commissioners will assist the board of directors by providing administrative support and staffing for preconstruction activities.
A group of supporters, including Arnold, traveled to Tallahassee for the community affairs meeting.
“It is another step forward on our journey to make the dream of the Florida Museum of Black History in St. Johns County a reality. I praise the community for traveling with us to Tallahassee to demonstrate their ongoing support for this project,” Arnold said.