Jackson County June 23rd BOCC Regular Meeting Highlights

On June 23, 2026, at 9:00 AM, the Jackson County Board of County Commissioners held a Regular Meeting. This is a recap of some of the reports and requests included in that meeting.

A request was made for a proclamation honoring Shira McKinnie, Sr. The Board adopted a proclamation honoring Shira McKinnie, Sr. in recognition of his upcoming 100th birthday on July 30, 2026, celebrating a century of service, dedication, and contributions to Jackson County. The proclamation highlights Mr. McKinnie’s remarkable life journey as a member of the “Greatest Generation,” including his service in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II, his lifelong commitment to family, and his many years of work as a farmer, factory worker, and small business entrepreneur.

The Board recognized Mr. McKinnie’s enduring legacy of faith, hard work, perseverance, and community values, as well as the lasting impact he has had on multiple generations of family members and the Jackson County community. Commissioners extended their congratulations and best wishes as he approaches this extraordinary milestone and celebrated a life that continues to serve as an inspiration to future generations.

A public hearing occurred for a second reading for an ordinance to establish prohibition on Data Centers. The Board held a second public hearing on June 23, 2026, to consider adoption of an ordinance prohibiting data centers and associated facilities within the unincorporated area of Jackson County. The action followed previous discussions by the Board, including a vote on May 26, 2026, to pursue a temporary moratorium on data center development and direct staff to begin the ordinance process. During the first public hearing and first reading held on June 9, 2026, the Board discussed the proposed moratorium ordinance and directed staff to revise the ordinance to establish a prohibition on data centers and associated facilities. Following public comment and Board discussion at the June 23 public hearing, the Board adopted the ordinance prohibiting data centers, associated facilities, and related County development approvals for such uses within the unincorporated area of Jackson County. The ordinance shall take effect immediately upon filing with the Florida Department of State.

During consideration of the ordinance on June 23, the Board approved amendments to the proposed language. The Board added provisions directing County staff to review the Comprehensive Plan and Land Development Code and prepare recommendations addressing the siting, design, infrastructure, environmental, public safety, and compatibility considerations associated with large-scale data centers and large-load customer facilities. The amendment directs staff to present proposed amendments or a written status report to the Board within 180 days. The Board also approved removing a proposed exception that would have allowed future exemptions from the ordinance upon Board approval. Following the approved amendments, the Board adopted the ordinance prohibiting data centers and associated facilities within the unincorporated area of Jackson County.

A request was also made for approval of Budget Schedule. The Board approved the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Budget Schedule, establishing a series of public workshops, special meetings, and public hearings to facilitate the review and adoption of the County’s annual budget and millage rate. The approved schedule includes budget workshops on July 20, 22, 23, 24, 27, 28, 29, and 30, all beginning at 9:00 a.m., to allow the Board and staff to review departmental budgets, funding priorities, and financial planning for the upcoming fiscal year.

The schedule also includes a special meeting on July 31, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. to establish the proposed tentative millage rate, rolled-back rate, and the date, time, and location of the tentative budget hearing. The First Public Hearing on the proposed budget and millage rate is scheduled for September 8, 2026, at 6:00 p.m., and the Final Public Hearing to adopt the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 budget and millage rate is scheduled for September 22, 2026, at 6:00 p.m.

Continuing the meeting was a request for approval of FDOT Grant Agreements and Resolutions. The Board approved two Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) Small County Road Assistance Program (SCRAP) grant agreements that will support transportation improvements in Jackson County. The first agreement provides $3,469,324 for the construction and Construction Engineering Inspection (CEI) services associated with resurfacing CR 167 (Old U.S. Road) from State Road 2 to the Alabama state line. The project includes roadway resurfacing, drainage improvements, and upgrades to signage and pavement markings to enhance safety and extend the life of the roadway.

The Board also approved a second SCRAP grant agreement providing $452,579 for the design and permitting phase of improvements to CR 164 (Blue Springs Road) from Sylvania Plantation Road to Butler Road. Planned improvements include reconstruction of the roadway to provide two 12-foot travel lanes, 8-foot shoulders with 4 feet paved, updated striping and signage, and drainage enhancements as needed.

Approval of State and County Holiday closures was also presented in the meeting. The Board approved an additional holiday closure for County offices in recognition of the 250th anniversary of American independence and in alignment with actions taken by the State of Florida. As a result, Jackson County offices will be closed on Friday, July 3, 2026, in observance of Independence Day, and Monday, July 6, 2026. On-call personnel and emergency response staff will continue operating as needed to serve the public and maintain critical County operations during the holiday period. County offices will resume normal operations on Tuesday, July 7, 2026.

To Subscribe To The Graceville News Visit Pricing Plans.