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Official City Notice: Presidents' Day Closures and Critical Safety Advisories

AuthorEditorial Team
Published
February 16, 2026/09:00 AM
Section
Social
Official City Notice: Presidents' Day Closures and Critical Safety Advisories
Source: Wikimedia Commons / Author: Michael Rivera

Presidents' Day Holiday Schedule and Facility Closures

In observance of the Presidents' Day holiday on Monday, February 16, 2026, the City of Jacksonville has announced several adjustments to municipal operations. Most administrative offices and facilities will be closed for the duration of the day. This includes City Hall at St. James, the Ed Ball Building, the Jake M. Godbold City Hall Annex, and the Yates Building. The Office of the Tax Collector and the Office of the Property Appraiser are also closed. Additionally, the 630-CITY Customer Service Center will remain closed through 8:00 a.m. on Tuesday, February 17, although residents may still submit service requests via the MyJax online portal.

Parks and Recreation Updates

While most city-managed facilities are unavailable today, there are exceptions for recreational spaces:

  • Tennis Centers: Boone Park Tennis Center is open with modified hours from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. All other regional tennis sites are closed.
  • Court Access: Hard courts and pickleball courts at all other facilities remain accessible on a first-come, first-served basis via back and side gates.
  • Sanitation Services: There are no changes to the regular schedule for garbage, recycling, or yard waste collection. Residents should place their bins at the curb as usual.

Urgent Public Safety: Wildfire and Drought Warnings

Jacksonville fire officials and Mayor Donna Deegan have issued a strict public notice regarding elevated wildfire risks due to extreme drought conditions across Duval County. As of mid-February, firefighters have already battled nearly 30 wildfires this year, a significant increase compared to the previous season. Effective immediately, all outdoor burning is strictly prohibited without a city-issued permit. Residents are urged to avoid using equipment that creates sparks near dry grass and to ensure that charcoal grills and fire pits are fully extinguished with water.

The St. Johns River Water Management District has also declared a moderate water shortage. All residents are requested to voluntarily reduce water consumption and eliminate unnecessary use to conserve the region's strained resources.

Public Health Advisory: Measles Outbreak

The Jacksonville Chief Health Officer has confirmed an ongoing measles outbreak in Duval County, with a fifth case recently identified. Local healthcare facilities are advised to implement strict protocols, including placing signage outside emergency departments to direct patients with rashes or febrile illnesses to remain outside until they can be evaluated. The city reminds residents that the MMR vaccine is the most effective defense and encourages those with concerns about exposure to contact their primary care provider for diagnostic testing.

Upcoming City Council Committee Meetings

Following the holiday, several City Council committees are scheduled to reconvene on Tuesday, February 17, 2026:

  • Neighborhoods, Community Services, Public Health & Safety: 9:30 a.m. at City Hall.
  • Education, Healthcare & Wellness Subcommittee: 11:00 a.m.
  • Rules Committee: 2:00 p.m.
Official City Notice: Presidents' Day Closures and Critical Safety Advisories