Pensacola Mayor Ashton Hayward today applauded Governor Scott’s decision not to locate a Florida Department of Corrections probation and parole office at 1625 North Palafox Street, near the historic North Hill neighborhood. The Department of Corrections has decided to instead to extend their lease at their current facility on North Davis Highway.
“This week, I had the opportunity to meet with Governor Scott and we had a frank conversation about this issue and the impact such a facility could have on our neighborhoods,” said Mayor Hayward. “While my administration was bound by law to issue permits, I have personally opposed the project and worked hard on behalf of our residents to find a workable solution.”
On Wednesday, Circuit Court Judge Gary Bergosh ruled that the proposed office was allowed under its current zoning, and thus that City officials had acted correctly in issuing permits for the building.
“I want to thank Governor Scott for being sensitive and responsive to the concerns of our neighborhoods,” said Mayor Hayward. “Governor Scott has been a tremendous friend to Pensacola and Northwest Florida and he has consistently come through for our community.”