In a pivotal meeting held on June 12, 2025, the Jacksonville Waterways Commission discussed significant developments regarding the lease agreement with Palms Fish Camp restaurant, a popular local establishment. The city is currently leasing submerged land to the restaurant, which includes a 21-slip commercial docking facility, an existing boat ramp, and a canoe and kayak launch. This lease, set for a term of ten years, comes with an annual fee of $5,445.91, which the Parks Department will manage, as they also collect approximately $20,000 annually from Palms Fish Camp.

During the meeting, Commissioner Devereux recused himself from voting on the lease due to a conflict of interest, as he and his wife own the fish camp. Despite this, the commission unanimously approved the lease, allowing Palms Fish Camp to continue its operations, which have been described as beneficial to the community.

The meeting also touched on the pressing issue of shoaling in the St. Johns River, particularly near Clapboard Creek. The commission is working closely with the Army Corps of Engineers and the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to address the growing shoal, which is believed to be exacerbated by dredging activities. The complexities of managing artificial reefs and the specific requirements for such projects were highlighted, emphasizing the need for specialized coordination.

Captain Suber provided insights from a recent meeting with the Army Corps, noting that two additional dredging projects are planned. These projects aim to alleviate the shoaling issue by moving dredged material offshore rather than depositing it in the basin, which has become increasingly full.

As the commission prepares for a transition with new city council members starting in July, the discussions from this meeting underscore the ongoing commitment to managing Jacksonville's waterways effectively, balancing community interests with environmental stewardship. The next subcommittee meeting is tentatively scheduled for August, where further updates on these critical issues will be addressed.