JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The battle over whether Jacksonville's new courthouse will get brand new furniture came to an end Tuesday night.
The City Council voted to bring new furniture with a hefty price tag into the new Duval County Courthouse.
Recommended Videos
"It's a little unusual. It's been a struggle somewhat but it's been a respectful struggle," said Chief Judge Donald Moran. "I think the administration will be pleased also. We'll have nice courthouse and they'll be proud of it."
The City of Jacksonville and the judges have been at odds for weeks over new desks and chairs for the new courthouse. The controversy has been over whether to buy new furniture for hearing rooms on the 7th floor of the new courthouse or to use old furniture. The city said it was a waste of taxpayer dollars; judges said it was tacky and cheap.
"They've been over and over this but it needs to go through the committee," said Councilman Greg Anderson.
It took an emergency measure by councilwoman Kimberly Daniels but finally the issue was solved Tuesday night. The council voted to spend $750,000 to buy new furnishings.
"We have almost 90,000 people a month come through that courthouse. It's hard to believe how many use it and how many cases are pending so it's a good thing for the city and community," said Moran.