JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The proposal calls for the creation of a special district in Riverside’s 5 Points neighborhood, aimed at addressing community concerns and fostering growth.
Known for its hip, eclectic, and laid-back vibe, 5 Points is a beloved neighborhood in Jacksonville’s Riverside area. Marcus Hill, owner of Holy Smoke Barbeque on Post Street, has been part of the community for decades and knew this was where he wanted to have his shop.
“I love the neighborhood, it’s growing,” Hill said. “It’s very nice, and I think we need to keep it just as it is and continue to grow.”
Councilman Peluso’s bill proposes the establishment of a “5 Points Dependent special district,” which would be overseen by a board of five members and three alternates. The district’s primary goals include improving safety and enhancing the area’s appeal.
Peluso said the proposal is the result of two years of discussions with neighbors and business owners. The special district would assess properties.
“They going to come to City Hall for their first budget, make sure that it’s within proper framework,” Peluso said. “There’s going to be different guidelines on what they can and can’t assess. We’re going to have assessments only on commercial properties, and then a few of the parking lots as well.”
The councilman said the dollars that are generated would then go toward things including landscaping, banners, marketing, and safety. Peluso said he’s had business owners tell them they’ve dealt with security issues over the years, and having these things in place would make a big difference.
“We need to make sure that we have a presence at all times,” Peluso stated. “It’s really going to start setting us apart as a commercial district, and really get people to say, ‘Oh, wow, I can go to 5 Points any time of the day and it’ll feel safe.’ That’s exactly what we want.”
Marcus Hill said he personally has seen only minor issues.
“The only problem is the unhoused, outside of that, it is a great neighborhood,” Hill said. “It is for all ages, all demographics, all races, all sizes, whatever you want to be. You come into 5 Points area, and you will fit in.”
If approved, the special district would begin assessing properties in November 2026.
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