Protests Erupt in Jacksonville Over Morgue Construction in Brentwood

Protests Erupt in Jacksonville Over Morgue Construction in Brentwood

Jacksonville, Fla. — The battle against the construction of a forensic lab and morgue in Brentwood has sparked significant backlash from local residents. Neighbors gathered to protest on Saturday, voicing their strong discontent with the city’s decision to build the facility so close to a school and residential area.

Significant Concerns Unveiled

Samuel Whitaker, a Brentwood resident, expressed his outrage, stating, “I don’t think the kids should come out and have to possibly see dead bodies being rolled into a morgue.” Many locals share this sentiment, emphasizing that a morgue is an inappropriate establishment for the neighborhood.

Protesters carried signs that conveyed their message clearly: “Death is not welcome in Brentwood.” The gathering attracted more than a dozen participants, all united in their opposition to the city’s plans. Ameena Shareef, another resident, raised additional concerns over potential environmental hazards linked to the facility, saying, “The chemicals and all the waste that’s going to be utilized will be going into our sewer area.”

Legal Action Against the City

The discontent has led the Metro Gardens Neighborhood Association to take legal action. Earlier this year, they filed a lawsuit against the City of Jacksonville, claiming the approval of the construction violated multiple zoning and property laws. This lawsuit reflects the depth of frustration among neighbors who describe the decision as “insanity.”

Community Urges Alternatives

As construction progresses, residents remain hopeful that the city will reconsider the building’s intended use. Shareef shared some alternative ideas, stating, “Let it be an urgent care center, a skill center, a computer lab, or a training facility. We are open to almost anything other than a morgue.”

Whitaker agreed, emphasizing that such a facility could be better located in downtown Jacksonville, a city with ample space for such operations. He argued that Brentwood simply isn’t a suitable location for a morgue, saying, “This is just not the appropriate place.”

No Comment from City Officials

City officials have opted not to comment on the ongoing legal situation, leaving residents feeling unheard. Councilwoman Ju’Coby Pittman, who represents the Brentwood area, has not yet responded to inquiries about the community’s protests and concerns.

Conclusion

The future of the forensic lab and morgue in Brentwood is uncertain as protests continue and legal actions unfold. With unwavering opposition from the community, the residents of Brentwood remain determined to see their message delivered: a call for a more suitable and less controversial use of the land.