Jacksonville daily brief: 3 a.m. last call vote, Springfield arson arrest, warming plan activated

1) Downtown could see later last call

Jacksonville City Council voted 17-1 on Feb. 24 to allow some downtown bars to serve alcohol until 3 a.m., up from the current 2 a.m. cutoff. The change is limited to designated entertainment areas and would cover dozens of businesses once the mayor signs the ordinance.

Supporters pitched the extra hour as a small but symbolic boost for downtown’s nighttime economy, especially in districts that have added housing, restaurants and hotels. Some opponents warned the city will need a clear plan for late-night safety, traffic and clean-up.

2) Arrest after deadly Springfield house fire

Police announced the arrest of a 49-year-old man accused of intentionally setting a fire at a Springfield home late Friday, a blaze that killed 62-year-old Willie Haywood Jr. Investigators said nine people were inside when the fire started, and the suspect faces charges including murder, arson and multiple counts of attempted murder.

3) Cold snap triggers warming-center plan

After a sharp temperature swing, the city activated its overnight warming-center contingency plan when forecasts called for temperatures at or below 27 degrees. The city’s warming center operated overnight Feb. 23–24 at the Legends Center on Soutel Drive, with transportation support and guidance for what residents should bring.

4) JEA board approves major power reshuffle

JEA’s board approved a deal to sell a portion of its Plant Vogtle power to utilities in Georgia and South Carolina for $571 million, while increasing purchases from Florida Power & Light. Utility staff said the combined moves are expected to net about $150 million and reflect shifting regional demand, including the growth of large electricity users.

What to watch

The late-night alcohol ordinance now heads to the mayor’s desk, and implementation details (including enforcement and policing) will likely become the next focal point.