Mid-Week Edition: April 15, 2026

At Monday's meeting, the Nassau County Board of County Commissioners directed County Attorney Denise May to draft an ordinance placing a 12-month moratorium on data center development in the unincorporated county. The move follows weeks of public concern sparked by a Miami-based renewable energy company's press release hinting at a project near the Jacksonville airport. County officials say no active applications exist and are calling it a proactive step to evaluate land use, infrastructure demands, and long-term community priorities. A formal vote is expected at a future commission meeting.

Fernandina Beach is weighing a combination of rate increases, new debt, and expanded staffing to address growing needs in its aging stormwater system. At an April 7 workshop, city staff and consultants told commissioners the utility has essentially zero days of cash on hand, compared to an industry median of about 315 days. It's an early-stage conversation, not a decision, but residents' bills and the city's long-term finances are both on the table.

Ocean Highway and Port Authority Vice Chair Scott Moore submitted a blunt written statement at the April 8 OHPA meeting, warning that the agency's operating agreement with Relay Terminals has cost taxpayers millions and delivered "almost nothing for the citizens of Nassau County beyond roughly 25 jobs." The same meeting revealed OHPA has collected only $18,000 of the $50,000 annual payment it owes the City of Fernandina Beach, with six months left in the fiscal year. Commissioners are now weighing whether to pursue further legal appeals or renegotiate the Relay agreement.

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A record 23 North Atlantic right whale calves were born during the 2025–2026 calving season that just wrapped up, the highest total in 17 years and a rare dose of good news for one of the most endangered marine species on earth. The calving grounds run right along our coastline, which is part of why the Amelia Island Whale Ambassadors threw a right whale–themed "baby shower" at Tigre Island Room last week to mark the close of the season. Executive Director Candis Whitney said turnout was "beyond our wildest dreams." With only about 380 right whales left and roughly 70 reproductively active females, every calf is a genuine milestone. The Right Whale Festival returns to Amelia Island this November.

It's the good part of spring on the island. What's the one local farmers market vendor or stand you always stop at this time of year? Hit reply with their name. We read every response.

North Atlantic right whales, who had a record calving season off our coast, got their common name from whalers. Why were they called "right" whales?

Answer: Because they were considered the "right" whale to hunt. Slow swimmers, close to shore, and buoyant when killed so they floated rather than sank.

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