How does a city balance shiny new development with the preservation of its historic soul, and who is truly served by its public transportation? In this episode of Mikes on Mic, the Mikes sit down with Dr. Sherry Magill to dissect the pressing issues shaping Jacksonville's future. From saving iconic downtown architecture to demanding accountability from public agencies, Magill brings decades of institutional wisdom to the conversation.
- Saving the Hayden Burns Library: Discover how Magill championed the transformation of an abandoned building into "the Jessie," a shared center designed to stabilize rent and drive down operating costs for local nonprofits.
- The Loss of the Historic Core: Hear a passionate critique of Jacksonville's development priorities, mourning the demolition of the Greyhound bus station and Times-Union building while advocating for a master plan rooted in historic preservation.
- Filling the Civic Void: Learn why Magill launched the free Jax Lookout Substack newsletter to foster public dialogue and accountability following the decline of local print media and the collapse of JCCI.
- Transit and Taxpayer Priorities: Explore the ongoing struggles at JTA and JEA, including the moral outrage over Aaron Zahn's contract arbitration and the disconnect between subsidizing multi-million-dollar riverfront condos versus funding a functional mass transit system for working citizens.
Dr. Sherry Magill is a valued member of Jacksonville's civic leadership. After an extensive background in higher education and American studies, she led the Jessie Ball duPont Fund for 27 years before retiring in 2018. Today, she continues to advocate for the community by publishing Jax Lookout, a weekly opinion newsletter examining local government, downtown development, and public policy.
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