JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The future of Duval County Public Schools’ headquarters remains uncertain, but the district is one step closer to a potential move.
On Tuesday night, the school board voted 6-1 to allow Superintendent Dr. Christopher Bernier to continue contract negotiations to purchase a new building in Baymeadows for $14 million. The current headquarters sits on the Southbank along the St. Johns River — a piece of real estate many consider prime for redevelopment.
The move has sparked debate among board members and the public, with some raising concerns about the process and its impact on accessibility.
“I think there are a number of folks who work in this building who either ride the Skyway or take an Uber here,” said District 4 board member Darryl Willie, the lone “no” vote. “A transition of commute for them is going to be doubled, if not triple what it is.”
Willie added that he feels the process is being rushed.
Bernier said the board directed him more than a year ago to explore relocation options to open the riverfront for future development.
While the district considers the Baymeadows location, the Southbank property has attracted significant interest.
A nonprofit called Fleet Landing has offered $20 million to buy the site and turn it into a retirement community. According to DCPS, Fleet Landing was selected from among 10 bidders during an open sale.
Some board members and community members question whether that’s the best use of the land — and whether the sale would benefit downtown Jacksonville.
“I have concerns with the purchaser’s nonprofit status and the potential impact on property tax revenue,” said District 3 board member Cindy Pearson. “If the purchaser isn’t paying full property tax, what does that mean for downtown development — and what’s the benefit to the community?”
Pearson made it known that she did vote for the approval of contract negotiations, but still isn’t completely sold on whether Baymeadows is the right move.
Board members are scheduled to vote on the headquarters sale during their regular meeting on Oct. 7. Pearson said with so many questions, she can’t say if she will vote to approve those agenda items.
During public comment, one resident even suggested selling the parking lot instead to raise funds, saying the current meeting location is more accessible for some community members than the proposed alternative.
The vote this week does not finalize the relocation or the sale of the Southbank property. A final vote is expected next month.