Neptune Beach Community Development Board denies restaurant's request for more parking

NEPTUNE BEACH, Fla. — A group of neighbors in Neptune Beach is fighting to protect what they call a family-oriented community.

Some neighbors are concerned about off-site parking for a new restaurant called The Local going up in the Beaches Town Center, but not just because of the cars.

The restaurant is located where the 7-Eleven convenience store used to be, right next to the Starbucks.

By adding more parking spaces, the restaurant would have been able to get a liquor license.

Keith Baker is one of several neighbors who said they want to avoid the barlike atmosphere.

“It’s a no-brainer. The more alcohol there is, the more chance for problems,” Baker said.

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During Wednesday’s City of Neptune Beach Community Development Board meeting, the restaurant owner said he was willing to close early to not contribute to a bar crowd.

However, it wasn’t enough to persuade the board as they voted to deny the off-site parking request.

The board voted unanimously to approve outdoor dining at the restaurant.

In Jacksonville Beach, city leaders are moving forward with banning restaurant alcohol sales past midnight.

The ordinance is going up for a second discussion Aug. 5. A vote is not planned yet.

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Cox Media Group