Fernandina's Paid Parking Plan Faces Legal Challenge

Opponents file second request for injunction to block downtown paid parking program.

Jan. 27, 2026 at 3:39pm

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Opponents of Fernandina Beach's new paid parking plan have filed another request for a temporary injunction to block the program. The Citizens Against Paid Parking PAC and a city resident claim the plan violates state and federal laws, as well as the will of voters. Meanwhile, a petition drive has begun to recall two city commissioners who may vote to override a public referendum on the parking plan.

Why it matters

The paid parking plan is a controversial issue in Fernandina Beach, with opponents arguing it will hurt local businesses and infringe on religious freedom. The legal battle and potential recall election highlight the deep divisions in the community over this policy decision.

The details

The amended complaint filed by opponents asks a judge to block the parking plan, claiming it "violated a plethora of Florida and federal laws, as well as circumvents the will of the voting public." The plan covers public lots and spaces along Centre Street and includes a smartphone app for payment, with some free permits for residents. Opponents say the plan violates the state's Religious Freedom Restoration Act by requiring clergy and worshippers at four downtown churches to pay to park for weekday events.

  • On January 5, a judge dismissed the initial request for an injunction, saying it was premature since the city had not yet approved the parking plan.
  • The City Commission approved the paid parking plan the day after the judge's ruling on January 6.
  • The amended request for an injunction was filed on Friday, January 24.

The players

Citizens Against Paid Parking

A political action committee that has filed the amended request for an injunction against Fernandina Beach's paid parking plan.

Marianne Aho

A Nassau County Circuit Judge who previously dismissed the initial request for an injunction, saying it was premature.

Tim Poynter

A Fernandina Beach city commissioner who opponents say may vote to override a public referendum on the paid parking plan.

Genece Minshew

A Fernandina Beach city commissioner who opponents say may vote to override a public referendum on the paid parking plan.

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What they’re saying

“This is the last thing we want to do. Let me repeat that: THIS IS THE LAST THING we want to do! But we feel we have no choice! Commissioners have stated they will override the vote if it passes in November to ban public parking — so much for the idea of representative government.”

— Roger Martin, Organizer, Recall FB 2026

What’s next

The judge will decide whether to grant the temporary injunction blocking the paid parking plan. If the injunction is denied, the city may move forward with implementing the program. The petition drive to recall two city commissioners could also continue, potentially leading to a recall election.

The takeaway

The legal battle over Fernandina Beach's paid parking plan highlights the deep divisions in the community, with opponents arguing the program violates laws and the will of voters. The potential recall election adds another layer of political turmoil as the city tries to implement a new revenue source to fund infrastructure projects.