Fernandina Beach Council to Debate Felix Jones' Future

FERNANDINA BEACH, FL -- His name is Felix Jones, and if you have walked the downtown of this historic waterfront city over the past two decades, you have likely heard his harmonica, bought peanuts or cookies, or just have been charmed by his gentle smile and demeanor.

Jones is a three-wheeled musical ambassador riding daily up and down the streets pedaling his adult tricycle, and peddling his wares.

Local Business owner Mike Garbarini says year after year, tourists return for the historic charm of the city, and to revisit Felix Jones.

"They ask for the hootchie-kootchie man to play his harmonica, and just for the flavor he adds to our community," said Garbarini.

But Jones' public performances and peanut and cookie sales could soon be over, after city officials were reminded of a 54-year-old law prohibiting street vendors like Felix Jones.

But in shop after shop on the main drag, there are "Free Felix" signs hanging in storefront windows as a collective show of support for their unofficial goodwill ambassador.

Fernandina Beach City Manager Mike Czymbor says if Felix can find a local property owner to allow him access, he will no longer be working in the street in violation of the ordinance.

The matter will be taken up Tuesday night at the Fernandina Beach City Commission meeting at 6 p.m., which is expected to draw several hundred local Felix Jones supporters.

©2009 First Coast News. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, rewritten, or redistributed.