ATLANTIC BEACH, Fla. — It’s a question that could reshape local government as we know it - should the three beach cities break away from Duval County?

A new University of North Florida poll shows the community is evenly divided on the idea of the beaches forming a new county.

There've been talks on it over the years, but Atlantic Beach Mayor Curtis Ford told First Coast News Thursday it's not on the table right now.

"It surprised me that it was that high of a percentage," said Ford.

Ford remembers a time in the early 90s where he was a fan of the idea for the three beach cities possibly splitting off and forming "Ocean County."

However, he feels that time has passed and that having to create a new school district, public safety departments, jail, court system and more would be qui

See Full Page