Efforts to enhance tree protection during construction in St. Johns County hit a roadblock on Tuesday. The county commission was considering updates to the tree ordinance, aiming to provide more safeguards for trees during the development of neighborhoods and shopping centers. During a lengthy session, dozens of residents, builders, and environmentalists voiced support for measures such as higher fees for tree removal, stricter penalties for tree removal, and mandates for tree buffers around new developments. Public comments on this topic lasted over 2 hours, with the overall discussion taking more than 2.5 hours. However, in the end, county commissioners voted…
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Vehicle Identified in I-95 Shooting
At approximately 11:20am on 10/17/23, SJSO deputies were dispatched to a shooting incident on Interstate 95 in the area of the 327 mile marker southbound. Unknown suspects in a red passenger vehicle approached the victim(s) vehicle and opened fire. The male driver (victim) was struck and crashed into the center guard rail and a female passenger sustained glass break injuries. Both were transported to area hospitals. The suspect vehicle continued southbound and has not been located at this time. The attached image is the actual suspect vehicle. If you were traveling in this area during this time frame and you…
Continue ReadingSt. Johns County Fire Chief Forced to Resign Speaks Out, Gains Public Support
Former St. Johns County Fire Chief, Scott Bullard, is seeking reinstatement as a firefighter after being forced to resign earlier this month. Bullard, who has worked for the department for 22 years, addressed county commissioners on Tuesday, stating he had been promised he could continue working with the fire rescue in another capacity if he resigned as chief. Bullard has filed a grievance against the county, claiming they violated the law by refusing him employment. His request for reinstatement is supported by a Change.org petition with nearly 800 signatures. Many firefighters also showed up in support. However, the head of…
Continue ReadingSt. Augustine Fishing Report
By Capt. Adam Morley Fishing in St. Augustine and the surrounding waters has had its ups and downs, with notable insights from local experts shaping this week’s report. As we approach the waxing crescent phase with the New Moon scheduled for the 21st, the fishing community is facing both challenges and successes. Brett at Fishbites Trading Post mentioned descent pompano being caught in the surf, attributing the drop in water temperature to this development. Ghost shrimp, fresh dead shrimp, and live sand fleas paired with a piece of Fishbites in shrimp or flea scent are proving effective for anglers in…
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