Residents push back on proposal to replace St. Augustine shop with restrooms

Just off St. George Street in downtown St. Augustine, a pirate statue stands guard outside a shop that doesn’t look like most of its neighbors.

Step inside Manly Toys and Hobbies and you’ll find pocketknives, camping and outdoor gear, and gifts — the kind of place owner Ted Hill says he created on purpose.

“There’s 200 stores that have dresses and candles and perfume,” Hill told News4Jax.

But this summer, Hill’s attention turned from merchandise to something much bigger: whether he’ll be able to keep the doors open at all.

The need for restrooms

Hill has been in the same city-owned building for about 10 years. City leaders have been exploring ways to expand access to public restrooms downtown as St. Augustine welcomes heavy visitor traffic in its historic district.

On the list of possibilities his Hill’s store with his current lease set to expire in December.

The topic was not listed as a stand-alone agenda item at a City Commission meeting Monday, but the crowd that showed up ensured it became a major part of the night.

Hill brought public attention to the issue in a Facebook post urging people to show up and speak out.

Former employee Albert Martinez told commissioners the change would be “putting a man out of business and taking away a jewel of St. Augustine.”

Debra Bader urged city leaders to look for a solution that doesn’t sacrifice a small business.

“We are not asking you to choose between progress and people,” Bader said. “We are asking for a solution that allows both.”

Another speaker said, “I don’t see why this man’s business has to suffer.”

Commissioner Jon DePreter said the city is hearing a consistent complaint from the community — that there aren’t enough bathrooms downtown.

“We’re a landlord, but we have to provide city services as well,” he said.

‘Ohana’: Hill says customers are family

After public comment, Hill told News4Jax the attention has been intense — and emotional.

“My phone is blowing up,” Hill said, describing people calling, messaging — and even traveling to spend money at the shop to show support.

Hill, who grew up in Hawaii, described what the support means with one word.

“It’s ohana. They’re family.”

Hill also told News4Jax he understands the city has to weigh competing needs — serving residents and visitors while supporting local businesses.

“If the council decides that the community is better served by me not being there then I will bow my head graciously and say thank you,” he said. “I’m hoping they don’t.”

What’s next

By the end of the meeting, commissioners voted to allow the city manager to extend Hill’s lease to September 2027, giving Hill more time as the city continues discussing restroom options.

City leaders also indicated the restroom plan remains under consideration. The city manager is expected to return to commissioners with potential funding sources and project plans as the budget cycle begins.

A special city budget meeting is scheduled for 3 p.m. July 13, when commissioners are expected to begin those discussions.

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This story was produced by News4Jax, a Jacksonville Today news partner.