Ever wonder what the news headlines were in our city 50 years ago? It may have been a different time in Jacksonville, but it turns out some the news paralleled issues being faced today — the courthouse, traffic infrastructure, City Council policies affecting the price of homes and even crime and the prison system.
The following are some of the top Times-Union stories printed 50 years ago this week, compiled from the Jacksonville Public Library’s periodical archives.
• The County Commission urged the State Department of Transportation to four-lane Chaseville Road (now University Blvd. N.) from the expressway to Jacksonville University. The commissioners cited increased traffic in the area following the opening of the Mathews Bridge and the influx of new residents in Arlington.
• The Commission also approved the issuance of $300,000 in bonds to finance construction of a golf course and two swimming pools at Jacksonville Beach.
• The City Council enacted an ordinance requiring stricter regulations for wiring in new homes. The new electrical code mandated wiring capable of carrying more current in the event homeowners might – in the future – install large appliances like air conditioning. The measure was opposed by Crosby Dawkins, president of the Home Builders Association of Jacksonville because it would increase the cost of a new house.
• The Criminal Court had more than 900 intoxication cases on the docket, so a “bond plea day” session was held at the Courthouse. Most of the defendants charged didn’t appear so their bonds were forfeited, disposing of the cases.
• The Florida Association of County Judges held its mid-winter conference in Jacksonville. At a luncheon, State Attorney General Richard Ervin announced a plan to give County Court judges the same status as Circuit Court judges in the State judicial system. He also announced that as part of the plan, Justices of the Peace would be integrated into the system.
• County Commissioner Dallas Thomas outlined his proposal to create a City Prison Agricultural Program. The idea was to reduce costs by raising produce and livestock to feed prisoners.
• Timuquana Country Club announced a $300,000 remodeling project was in the works. Improvements included a larger ballroom and expansion of the locker room facilities for the club’s 700 members.
Source: Jacksonville Public Library periodicals archive