The city of Jacksonville can move forward with obtaining property for the development of the Emerald Trail, with City Council still retaining some approval power if eminent domain is needed.
Council voted 13-1 to approve Ordinance 2026-0327, which would allow the city to purchase 16 parcels of land for $12.59 million. Council President Kevin Carrico voted no, and members Raul Arias, Rory Diamond, Chris Miller, Jimmy Peluso and Ron Salem were not present.
Members also approved an amendment from the Finance Committee requiring the city to seek Council approval before staff sought to use eminent domain to acquire the property…