Tropical Storm Erika is following a path that could end Florida’s 10-year run without a hurricane. Jacksonville City Council President Greg Anderson is proposing a solution to infrastructure woes on downtown’s Northbank. The Jacksonville organization that protects people from discrimination is struggling under an overwhelming case load.
It’s Friday, August 28, 2015. Welcome to WJCT First Read, your daily weekday morning round-up of stories from the First Coast, around Florida and across the country.
Here are 8 stories you might have missed.
Tropical Storm Erika Could Bring Wind, Rain To First Coast Next Week
Erika’s current path puts her 35 miles off the coast of Cape Canaveral early next week. That could mean a wet, windy Monday and Tuesday for the First Coast. Florida Gov. Rick Scott is warning families to get prepared as the storm develops.
New Liberty Street Repair Plan To Save Jacksonville $28 million
Orange blockades and “caution” signs still line the riverfront after parts of Liberty Street collapsed into the water over the the past few years. The new plan would cost the city less, $37 million instead of a previous estimate of $65 million, and be completed sooner.
The Tech To Help You Get Through The Storm
As you prepare for hurricane season, don’t forget about your technology. Make sure to download apps now that can make it easier to get through the storm, and make sure to have what you need to keep your devices running during and after the storm.
Jacksonville Human Rights Commission Overwhelmed With Caseload
The Jacksonville Human Rights Commission lost three workers last year due to city budget cuts, and funding isn’t increasing this year.
Black Chamber Of Commerce To Make Extra Push For New Business On The Northside
Jacksonville’s Black Chamber of Commerce says it has a 30-year plan to bring business back to the city’s Northside. The chamber plans to reveal its proposal at a forum called the “State of Black Jacksonville” Friday evening.
A Kinder, Gentler GI Bill Making College More Affordable For Vets
A change to state law is making it simpler for military veterans to attend college regardless of where they call home. VA Deputy Under Secretary for Economic Opportunity Curtis Coy, says Florida was one of the early adopters of the change that is now the standard nationwide.
FPL Gets Go-Ahead To Close Jacksonville Coal Plant By End Of Next Year
State regulators Thursday approved a settlement that will clear the way for Florida Power & Light to buy — and ultimately shut down — a coal-fired power plant in Jacksonville.
Suspect In VA TV Shooting Kills Himself; Was Former Reporter In Tallahassee
The former Virginia journalist who killed two of his former co-workers, is dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
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