JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – A push to close dangerous businesses in Jacksonville could be delayed due to a new lawsuit.
The attorney who filed the lawsuit is representing three internet cafes in Jacksonville.
Kelly Mathis claims that the city ordinance aiming to shut down internet cafes is unconstitutional and will result in thousands of people losing their jobs.
Tanzi Maestre works at an internet cafe on Jacksonville’s northside and has been employed there for 11 years.
“I’m pretty upset actually. They gave us until February and now they’re going back on their word, so that makes me lose some faith in the system,” Maestre explained.
Instead of adhering to the approved February first deadline, the city wants all internet cafes closed immediately.
The city argues that internet cafes are a nuisance and attract crime, but attorney Kelly Mathis disagrees.
“Some of them may be, but to broadly apply that to every game room without giving the game rooms an opportunity to disprove that we think violates the Constitution,” said Mathis.
Action News Jax previously reported in June that 15 internet cafes in Jacksonville were forced to close their doors for not complying with city codes.
“We’ve done everything they told us to do. In the last hour, they take all your money and want to shut you down,” Maestre added.
“Two thousand people will lose their jobs before Christmas,” Mathis said.
Action News Jax contacted City Council president Scott Wilson on Wednesday.
Wilson stated he was unaware of the lawsuit but believes it could potentially stop the council from voting on the proposed early shutdown next week.
“If the new ordinance is passed, then the lawsuit will be amended, and we will be moving for immediate relief in the courts,” said Mathis.
The City Council will meet on Oct. 8 at Jacksonville City Hall.
