No fireworks, other news from the City of St. Augustine

SAINT AUGUSTINE –  News provided by the City of St. Augustine:

 On Monday, June 8, the St. Augustine City Commission unanimously upheld its decision to postpone the annual fireworks display, Fireworks Over the Matanzas, to a date to be determined at a future commission meeting. This decision, in conformity with the Florida Governor’s directives and the cancellation of surrounding jurisdictions, was made with the health and safety of the public in mind.

City Manager John Regan provided a memo to the commission with an outline of updated information, such as the governor’s phasing policy of reopening, current health statistics, safety guidelines, and the most recent fireworks decisions of surrounding coastal jurisdictions.

Several individuals appeared in person in The Alcazar Room as well as called via telephone to offer public comment. In addition, public comments submitted via email were read into the public record by the city clerk.

“Fireworks Over the Matanzas attracts thousands of visitors every year and is valued by our local businesses, as well as our residents, “said St. Augustine Mayor Tracy Upchurch. “With the recent spike in COVID-19 cases reported in Florida in mind, and with a heavy heart, we simply must postpone this year’s event for the safety and health of our community.”

Questions may be directed to Melissa Wissel, Communications Manager, at 904.825.1053. City Manager John Regan’s memo is available at www.CityStAug.com.

This year marks the 30th Anniversary of Concerts in the Plaza, but fans will have to wait to celebrate since COVID-19 restrictions make it difficult to proceed, even with caution.

    Until restrictions are loosened or lifted, the concerts will be suspended. In the event that only a limited number of performances are impacted, they may be rescheduled for the later part of September. 

   Monitor the City’s website and Facebook page for updates to the concert schedule. Questions may be directed to Kimberly Mayo, Event and Venue Coordinator, at 904.825.1004 or events@CityStAug.com

In response to food insecurity created by COVID-19, FREE fresh produce meal kits will be distributed at the City of St. Augustine Historic Downtown Parking Facility in a drive-thru event this Sunday, June 14, from 1-3pm, while supplies last. No early arrivals can be accommodated.

Meals will be provided thanks to the generosity of the following partners: FiveStar Gourmet Foods, True Floridian Clothing Company, Chefs Collaborative, City of St. Augustine, United Way of St. Johns County, A Chefs Adventure and Michael’s St. Augustine. 

   For more information, visit the Facebook Event.

Pledge St. Johns County is a program that offers businesses the opportunity to commit to CDC guidelines and ensure St. Johns County residents, visitors, and employees are safe and comfortable in their establishments.

Created in partnership with St. Johns County, the City of St. Augustine, the City of St. Augustine Beach, the St. Johns County Chamber of Commerce, and the St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra & the Beaches Visitors and Convention Bureau, “Pledge St. Johns County” features a pledge in which businesses vow to adhere to CDC guidelines and an opportunity to be featured for taking the pledge.