Graceville Commission Approves McDonald’s Rezoning, Hears Public Safety Concerns During May Meeting

The Graceville City Commission held its regular monthly meeting on Tuesday, May 12, covering a wide range of topics including the approval of rezoning tied to a proposed McDonald’s development, multiple infrastructure and grant updates, and lengthy public comments regarding law enforcement coverage and public safety concerns within the city.

One of the evening’s most anticipated agenda items centered around a request to rezone property located at 5412 Brown Street, 5415 Brown Street, and 5414 Cotton Street from medium density residential to C-2 general commercial to accommodate a proposed McDonald’s restaurant. City Manager Michelle Watkins explained that city staff, engineers, developers, and representatives associated with the project had been working together for approximately six months preparing for the request. Watkins noted the rezoning was compatible with surrounding land uses and that the planning commission had already reviewed the proposal and voted to recommend approval to the city commission.

Beck Reed, representing the project on behalf of McDonald’s, addressed commissioners during the meeting and confirmed details concerning the development were included within the commission packet, including traffic schematics and engineering information. Reed stated the proposed restaurant was expected to employ approximately 15 to 20 people once operational, though exact staffing decisions would ultimately be determined by management. Reed also stated construction was tentatively projected to begin in 2027, with a projected construction timeline of approximately three to four months once work begins.

The rezoning request received unanimous approval from the commission following a motion by Commissioner Curtis Pinkard and a second by Commissioner Marshall Davis. Mayor Walter Olds welcomed the project, stating the city appreciated McDonald’s choosing Graceville. Members of the audience also expressed support for the proposed restaurant, with one citizen commenting they were “glad to have them.”

Commissioners also approved authority for the city manager to execute a Stormwater Resiliency Adaptation Grant agreement totaling $264,500 pending legal review. Watkins explained the funding would be used for planning and specifications connected to comprehensive stormwater improvements throughout portions of the city, particularly in drainage and high-water areas. Commissioners additionally approved authorization to advertise for professional services necessary to prepare engineering specifications related to the resiliency project.

During the city manager’s report, Watkins provided commissioners with numerous updates regarding ongoing and upcoming grant-funded projects throughout Graceville. Watkins announced the city had submitted or was in the process of submitting several new applications, including a Community Development Block Grant application seeking $650,000 for park improvements near Tiger Park and AP Furniture. Proposed improvements include property clearing, pedestrian bridges, and construction of a large pavilion along Cliff Street.

Additional updates included the city’s Martin and Pelham project application submitted to the Florida Department of Transportation, as well as progress on a legislative appropriation-funded fire truck that recently arrived and was being outfitted with equipment before returning to the city’s fire station. Watkins also discussed progress on several large-scale utility and infrastructure projects, including the $6.3 million sewer hardening project, the $1.2 million water system hardening project, and the inflow and infiltration sewer rehabilitation project, which she stated was nearing completion of engineering plans and specifications.

Watkins further updated commissioners on the city’s planned splash pad project, noting environmental reviews had been completed and submitted to the state for approval. She also announced that pre-construction activities had officially begun on the Cliff Street and Second Avenue bridge rehabilitation project, with construction expected to begin June 1. Watkins explained the project was designed to stabilize and reopen the bridge while positioning the city for a future full bridge replacement through the Department of Transportation within the next several years.

Another item discussed during the manager’s report involved a partnership between the City of Graceville and the Graceville American Legion to distribute American flags in recognition of the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary. Watkins stated flags were being distributed on a first-come, first-served basis through City Hall prior to Memorial Day.

Watkins additionally noted that the Jackson County Board of County Commissioners had lifted the county burn ban earlier that day and publicly thanked the county commission and Jackson County Economic Development officials for unanimously supporting incentives aimed at helping bring McDonald’s to Graceville.

Public comments during the meeting focused heavily on concerns involving law enforcement staffing, emergency response coverage, and recent incidents within the city. Charlene Miller addressed commissioners regarding a recent incident involving reported gunfire in the city, stating she was concerned about response times and the lack of police coverage at the time of the incident. Miller stated she believed residents should not feel unsafe within the city and expressed frustration regarding what she viewed as inadequate police coverage.

Another citizen, Christina Deon, spoke about a separate interaction involving a city police officer, alleging unprofessional conduct and expressing concerns regarding accountability and officer training. Deon urged city officials to address public confidence issues within the department and stated citizens wanted to see meaningful changes. Additional residents also spoke regarding concerns over gunfire and policing within the city.

Police Chief Jake Barley responded to the concerns by acknowledging staffing shortages within the department, stating the department currently consisted of only four individuals including himself. Barley said the city was actively recruiting additional officers and relying heavily on assistance from the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office for coverage. He encouraged residents with concerns to contact him directly.

Commissioners also responded to the public comments. Commissioner Terry Nichols acknowledged community concerns and discussed the difficulty many law enforcement agencies are facing in recruiting officers. Nichols stated the commission was working to improve communication and support the department while continuing recruitment efforts. Commissioner John McClendon also addressed the audience, asking for patience while city leaders work through ongoing staffing and public safety issues, emphasizing the commission’s desire to improve conditions while continuing positive growth efforts throughout the city.

Toward the conclusion of the meeting, Mayor Walter Olds reflected on his time serving as mayor, noting the May meeting would be his final regular meeting before the city selects a new mayor during the next meeting cycle. Olds thanked fellow commissioners, city staff, attorneys, and residents for their support and encouraged continued progress and unity within the community. Olds also acknowledged newly elected Commissioner Samantha Angerbrandt, encouraging her to “keep your hands on the wheel” as the city continues moving forward through both challenges and opportunities.

The meeting concluded with Mayor Olds emphasizing the importance of community cooperation, addressing public safety concerns, and continuing development efforts aimed at improving the City of Graceville.

**Full Meeting Transcript Available In The May 28th Edition**

To Subscribe To The Graceville News Visit Pricing Plans.