Internet cafes growing concern in Nassau County

By Cindy Jackson

December 17, 2019

Just one of Nassau County's Arcades located in the unincorporated area of the county.

Internet cafes have become a growing concern for Nassau County residents in the past few months. News of armed robberies in recent weeks have made sensational headlines – one occurring at Tracks in Yulee along on A1A and another on Amelia Island at the 8th Street Arcade.

Since Duval County made it illegal for such businesses to be in business, the number of internet café establishments has dramatically increased here in Nassau County. There are now 32 such operations – up from just 14 less than a year ago.

The Board of County Commissioners plans to work on an ordinance with recommendations provided by County Attorney and County Manager Mike Mullin. That ordinance, as Mullin explained, will declare such businesses a nuisance based on increased criminal activity. Mullin reiterated a comment made earlier that Duval and Nassau Counties are very different in that Nassau County “just can’t ban.”

Mullin went on to explain that starting immediately, there will be “roving patrols by code enforcement,” to be joined by the Building Department and the Office of the Fire Marshall.

Comments from audience members during over the course of the past month have included these remarks and others of a similar ilk:

“ are not being opened out of benevolence,” and “these establishments prey on poor people and those who cannot afford it.”

In the minority of public comments received was a statement about the importance of these establishments as a fellowship opportunity for Nassau County’s senior citizens.

A hearing will be scheduled later this month and Mullin has suggested that County officials work with State Attorney Melissa W. Nelson on this issue.

Editor's Note: Born in Hagerstown, Maryland, Cindy received her BA in Political Science from Dickinson College. Upon graduation, Cindy began her career on Capitol Hill working as a legislative aide and director. She later became a part of the public relations and lobbying team of the American Iron and Steel Institute and served as director of the office of state legislative affairs for the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA). Cindy was involved in economic development with the state of Maryland, and served as executive director of Leadership Washington County. As a community volunteer, Cindy participates in numerous volunteer activities serving as a member of Sunrise Rotary, and as board member of Cummer Amelia Board of Directors.