High Springs Greenlights Mcdonald’s Site Plan

HIGH SPRINGS ‒ The High Springs City Commission met Thursday, March 27, 2025, to address several new business items, including awarding a contract for a fire station HVAC replacement, approving two commercial site plans, and discussing a potential $260,000 repayment related to the purchase of Canoe Outpost.

Vice Mayor Andrew Miller presided over the meeting in the absence of Mayor Tristan Grunder.

Commissioners unanimously awarded a contract for the replacement of the fire station’s HVAC system to Crystal Air and Water, Inc., the lowest of two bidders at $109,823. Shine and Company, Inc. also submitted a proposal in response to the city’s request.

The commission also unanimously approved a site plan for Whitfield Window & Door, which will construct a 9,500-square-foot office and warehouse facility in the High Springs Industrial Park. The proposal was presented by city planning technician Kristyn Adkins.

Adkins also presented a site plan for a new McDonald’s restaurant to be located at 20410 N. U.S. Highway 441, adjacent to Tractor Supply. Craig McDonald appeared before the commission to summarize the project and answer questions. The proposed 3,859-square-foot fast food restaurant will include a drive-thru and is expected to employ approximately 60 people.

McDonald outlined planned road modifications to accommodate increased traffic, including the addition of a turn lane, median upgrades, and road widening along U.S. 441.

Residents voiced concerns over potential noise—particularly from truck traffic—and lighting. McDonald responded that a substantial tree and plant buffer will be installed and that lighting will be focused inward, away from neighboring properties.

Commissioner Katherine Weitz left the meeting before the McDonald’s presentation; the site plan was approved by a 4–0 vote.

In other business, City Manager Jeremy Marshall informed the commission of a possible repayment of $260,000 in Wild Spaces & Public Places funds used toward the purchase of Canoe Outpost. Marshall said Alachua County had notified the city earlier in the day about the issue.

Marshall noted the matter was still in early negotiations and expressed hope that, if repayment is necessary, the city would not have to return the full amount immediately. He added that he and the city’s finance director were reviewing options with the county and would provide updates as discussions continue.

When asked if selling the Canoe Outpost property could resolve the situation, Marshall said he did not believe that was an option. However, the city attorney stated they would review the purchase agreement and closing documents to determine what legal options may exist.

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