Residents urge commission to condemn racist incidents and defend community reputation

At the public-comment portion, Michael Sharp asked the commission to defer to the Waterfront Advisory Board on boat-ramp improvements and to prioritize safe launch-and-recovery access. “We need some relief there when it comes to launch and recovery boats,” Sharp said, urging the commission to respect the board’s recommendations.

Walter Marrero (referred to in the packet as Waldemar Barreiro) spoke about a recent incident at a volleyball game and said he opposes the notion that Fernandina Beach is a racist community. Speaking at the start of Hispanic Heritage Month, Marrero said the city should publicly condemn racism and welcome diverse residents: “I stand before you today in strong opposition of the notion that Fernandina Beach is a racist community... Please, I ask the mayor, the vice mayor, and the commissioners... in condemning any racism in our city.”

The mayor thanked both speakers and the commission moved on to the consent agenda. Commissioners later referenced other recent incidents and asked staff to ensure the city’s response and outreach were appropriate.