Five years ago, 2019

•  Managing Editor Don Coble introduced himself to Clay County in his first editorial, “Hello Clay County! Let’s get to know each other.”

•  Clay County School District Superintendent Addison Davis announced in a press conference that former CCSO Lieutenant Kenneth Wagner was selected as the Chief of Police for the district’s incoming police department.

•  The Jacksonville Transportation Authority opened the “Red” and “Blue” bus lines in Clay County, which are still open today at the same initial cost of $1 a ride. Initially, the “Magenta” line from Keystone Heights to Gainesville was closed, but it is available today. 

10 years ago, 2014

•  Supporters, donors and officials from the Town of Orange Park broke ground for the town’s newest playground between Town Hall and the Orange Park Fire Department headquarters.

•  Despite nearly a dozen complaints from citizens, the Clay County Commission voted 4-1 to look into the feasibility of the Big League Dreams project. The $25 million mega ballpark would eventually “strike out” after a robust dissenting grassroots campaign. 

20 years ago, 2004

•  Official portraits for two retired judges were unveiled at the Clay County Courthouse. Portraits for Fourth Judicial Circuit Court Judges L. Thomas McAnnally and Thomas J. Rivers would hang in courtrooms honoring their service to Clay County.

•  Sheriff’s investigators sought information about three dogs that had been reported stolen from the Safe Animal Shelter in the Doctors Lake area off County Road 220.

30 years ago, 1994

•  A State Attorney’s Office investigation into a case of 651 dogs and cats reported missing between 1991 and 1993 at Clay County Animal Control led to tightened security at the facility. Investigators believed the animals may have been stolen for use in animal research.

•  The Clay County Planning Commission was set to approve proposed design plans for the development of Pace Island, new units Orange Park South and the Fairway Oaks communities.

40 years ago, 1984

•  Orange Park Town Council prepared to draft an ordinance prohibiting parking along River Road.

•  Developer Ken O’Leary of American Classic Homes announced the plan to build the Gin House Landing development on a 134-acre tract of land on a branch of Black Creek in Middleburg. Originally dubbed Oak Bluff, O’Leary changed the name after local historians found the site was once home to a cotton gin.

50 years ago, 1974

•  Green Cove Springs City Council discussed ditching an agreement with JEA to generate its power for city residents. Officials cited high fuel oil costs as the reason for the proposed move.

•  An investigation into allegations of dereliction of duty was launched against Orange Park Town Superintendent George Custer. Mayor Jim Lytle urged Custer to resign for the town’s and its residents’ best interests.