The city of Jacksonville has decided to repurpose a liquor store located in Brentwood, as reported by News4JAX news partner The Jacksonville Daily Record. Mayor Donna Deegan announced this decision during a luncheon, stating that the property will be transformed into a small business support center. The center is expected to open in early fall and will focus on workforce development and entrepreneurship.

The city purchased the Golfair Boulevard property for $1.8 million in November, following opposition from Brentwood community members who protested against the liquor store due to its proximity to Kipp Voice Academy. Residents argued that the liquor store was not appropriate for the area, leading to the city’s decision to repurpose the property for a support center instead.

In addition to the liquor store controversy, community members have also opposed the construction of a new medical examiner’s office in the neighborhood. Despite these objections, construction for the medical examiner’s office is already underway next to the future support center. News4JAX is investigating whether there will be any changes to the plans for the medical examiner’s office in light of the new business center. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.