by J. Brooks Terry
Staff Writer
Legislation will be filed this week by Mayor John Peyton’s office that would appoint Zim Boulos to the Jacksonville Economic Development Commission. Boulos, president and owner of Office Environment & Services in San Marco, would be appointed to the first of two, two-year terms.
Boulos would be the second new commissioner this year, replacing Rogers Towers partner Fred Franklin. Attorney Bob Rhodes stepped in for Brad Glass of The Auchter Company in June.
“As a local Jacksonville business owner and leader he would be an excellent addition to the board,” said Peyton spokesperson Kristen Key, adding that Boulos would have to resign from his post on the Cultural Council board before joining the JEDC. “We’re looking forward to his service with the City of Jacksonville.”
JEDC chair Ceree Harden said he was “delighted” by Boulos’ nomination.
“Zim has for years been a tremendous community steward who does what he says he’s going to do,” Harden said. “He is a talented businessman who, from a small business perspective, can provide a very valuable perspective into the process.
“The mayor has made a very wise decision and I couldn’t be more supportive.”
The City Council will still have to approve the legislation before Boulos’ appointment is official.
“Because of the nature of his job, Zim interacts with a lot of other businesses in town and has developed a deep relationship with the community,” said Council President Kevin Hyde. “I’ve worked with him on San Marco projects since coming to the Council and he’s always been good at advocating what the community needs by bringing good ideas and arguments.”
Council member Art Graham said he was looking forward to reviewing Boulos’ appointment.
“But I wouldn’t think he would have any problems making his way through the committee process,” said Graham, also a member of the Council’s Rules Committee that reviews most of Peyton’s appointments. “Zim is a good guy who I know has accomplished a lot in San Marco. I don’t know as much about his business background as I would like, but when you look at his community involvement he’s been very focused and driven.”
Council member Suzanne Jenkins, who is also on the Rules Committee, agreed that Boulos’ reputation as a community activist with such groups as Greenscape and Jaxpride would likely help fast track the review of his appointment.
“He’s done a good job in San Marco and everyone recognizes that,” she said. “And as far as the town center concept goes, he’s played a big part in moving that area of town forward for years.
“He’s got a good head on his shoulders and he’s going to provide that extra spice that the JEDC could use right now.”
Former Mayor John Delaney created the JEDC in July 1996 as part of the City’s goal to recruit and develop business across the city. Seven commissioners are appointed by the mayor and confirmed by the City Council.