Q: The Jacksonville City Council has been on its annual break for the past couple of weeks and just resumed its meeting schedule today, July 19. In light of that, could you share your thoughts on your first two years as a councilmember?
A: First, I would like to thank all the constituents who have taken the time to contact me via email, phone calls, meetings or Town Hall attendance. It is very important to me to know where your needs and interests lie. Even in those instances where we may have disagreed, I want you to know that I do listen and consider what you take the time to share.
Over the past two years, a number of significant rezoning issues like Barkoskie, Aladdin Road, Melcon Farms, and the Julington (the apartment complex on San Jose Boulevard) all come to mind.
Additionally, there have been the ongoing challenges of working with the various departments within the city to address issues we all face, such as solid waste management, drainage, median maintenance, sidewalk repairs and street resurfacing. My assistant Sonia and I have been unrelenting in our effort to get all the issues addressed, even though not all have been successful.
Some projects we are proud of include the pickleball courts on Orange Picker Road, the renovation of the Mandarin Senior Center, improvements to our two libraries and various parks in our area, sidewalk installations and a number of resurfaced streets.
Going forward, our first priority continues to be the constituents of Mandarin.
Q: Do you have any news to share about the public works project for the Julington-Cormorant stormwater improvements?
A: The intent of this project is to design and construct drainage improvements at Cormorant Branch and Loretto Road to allow flood water to move more effectively. Additionally, a two-acre wet detention facility will be designed and constructed near the intersection of Loretto Road and Acosta Drive to provide both stormwater quality improvements and stormwater attenuation. The engineering report was submitted to the manager of the Master Stormwater Management Plan to update the model and based on the model updates will determine if Engineering proceeds with the stormwater drainage improvement project. The model updates are still being worked on and expected to be completed shortly.
Q: What is the best way for our readers to contact you?
A: Community members can email me at MBoylan@coj.net or call (904) 255-5206.
