Costco Gets Final County Approval For Nine Mile Road Store
August 20, 2025
The Escambia County Development Review Committee (DRC) on Wednesday afternoon granted approval for a new Costco store on Nine Mile Road.
The first conceptual plans were filed back in June 2024 for a Costco at 225 East Nine Mile Road, the site of a Planet Fitness that will be moving soon and a previous Kmart store.
Since that time, additional plans have been filed in response to DRC feedback, with approval finally granted Tuesday afternoon.
How long does it take to build a Costco?
The architectural firm MG2, which has partnered with Costco for 30 years on over 780 locations, says it takes under four months to build a new store.
“Costco Wholesale has set the bar by creating and maintaining the platinum standard in optimized rollouts: It takes just 110 days from the time construction begins to the moment doors open to their members” MG2 said. That means a new Pensacola Costco, if approved, could potentially open by the end of the year if construction beings soon.
But construction won’t start until the existing building is demolished, sometime after Planet Fitness moves.
What do the latest plans show?
The latest plans filed with Escambia County show the 172,580 square foot Costco retail store with a gas station and 830 parking spaces at 225 East Nine Mile Road, at the corner of East Nine Mile Road and Chemstrand Road. That’s the site of the current Planet Fitness and a former Kmart store. It’s several parcels totaling just under 22 acres.
The plans show the existing Dairy Queen, Sam’s Seafood Restaurant and Wells Fargo to remain, with a Costco gas station constructed between Sam’s Seafood and Wells Fargo in an area that is currently a parking area for the old shopping center. The current Planet Fitness building will be demolished to make room for the new Costco if it’s approved.
What happens to Planet Fitness?
Planet Fitness and the rest of the old shopping center will be demolished. As we previously reported on July 1, a new Planet Fitness is under construction at 312 East Nine Mile Road, next door to Aldi. It is in the remainder of a former Winn Dixie grocery store space that was converted into an Aldi with a smaller footprint, which opened in March.
At last report, the fitness center is planning an early September opening.
What is currently the nearest Costco to Pensacola?
The nearest currently open Costco to Pensacola is in Mobile, Alabama.
How much is a Costco membership?
Membership is required for in-store shoppers at Costco. Members must be 16 or older to apply. The pharmacy is open to anyone, regardless of membership.
Costco offers two levels of membership for individuals or businesses:
Executive $130 annually
- Annual 2% Reward
- Costco Services Discounts
- Shop Online and in Warehouses
- Includes 2 Membership Cards
- 100% Satisfaction Guarantee
Gold Star $65 annually
- Shop Online and in Warehouses
- Includes 2 Membership Cards
- 100% Satisfaction Guarantee
Businesses can purchase either level to purchase items for resale or add additional people at $65 each.
Pictured top: The Costco in Montgomery, Alabama, earlier this year. NorthEscambia.com photo.
Former Legislator Dave Murzin Selected As Century Town Administrator
August 20, 2025
The Century Town Council voted Tuesday night to hire former state representative Dave Murzin of Cantonment as the town’s next full-time administrator.
The council voted 3-1 to approve Mayor Ben Boutwell’s recommendation of Murzin, with Shelisa Abraham absent and council president Dynette Lewis casting the dissenting vote without making additional comment.
The vote authorized Boutwell to negotiate an employment agreement with Murzin for final council approval at their next regular meeting on September 2nd.
Murzin is currently the director of First Place Partners, representing economic development in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties. He is a former state representative. He has extensive experience in legislative leadership, economic development, and disaster recovery, having worked closely with local governments across Northwest Florida.
“I have worked closely with local governments across Northwest Florida to address critical infrastructure needs, secure funding, improve constituent services, and grow resilient economies. I’ve successfully managed multimillion-
dollar initiatives, built strong intergovernmental partnerships, and led emergency recovery efforts in coordination with local agencies and stakeholders.,” Murzin wrote in his application letter. “I understand the challenges small towns face and have a deep appreciation for the importance of strong leadership, operational integrity, and responsive governance.”
Sparkie Harrison Sworn In To The Century Town Council
August 20, 2025
Sparkie Harrison was sworn in Tuesday night to Seat 5 on Century Town Council.
Harrison was elected to the position without opposition. She has served on the council on a temporary appointed basis for the past few weeks.
She fills the seat left vacant when council member Sandra McMurray-Jackson resigned in early May.
Harrison’s term will expire in January 2027.
Pictured above: Century Mayor Ben Boutwell holds the Bible as Sparkie Harrison is sworn in Tuesday night. Pictured below: Harrison is congratulated by Judge Scott Ritchie. NorthEscambia.com photos, click to enlarge.
Northview JV Beats PHS, Varsity Slips To The Tigers
August 20, 2025
In a night of mixed results, the Northview and Pensacola High volleyball teams split their matches on Tuesday, with Northview’s JV squad claiming a victory while the Tigers’ varsity team swept the Northview varsity.
Northview JV 2, PHS 1
The Northview High School JV volleyball team clinched a hard-fought victory Tuesday night against the Pensacola High Tigers JV in a captivating match that went down to the wire.
Northview started strong, dominating the first set with a decisive 25-15 win.
However, the Tigers roared back in the second set, taking it 25-21 and evening the score, setting up a deciding set. In a nail-biting finish, Northview held their nerve, securing the third set 16-14 to claim the overall match.
PHS 3, Northview 0
The Pensacola High School Tigers’ varsity volleyball team defeated the Northview Chiefs in three straight sets Tuesday night in Bratt.
PHS won the first set 25-22, setting the tone for the match.
They continued to play strong in the second and third sets, winning 25-21 and 25-10 respectively to secure a decisive victory.
For a varsity photo gallery from the third set, click here.
Up next, Northview will host Flomaton on Monday, August 25.
NorthEscambia.com photos, click to enlarge.
Hot With Typical August Afternoon Scattered Showers
August 20, 2025
Here is your official North Escambia area forecast:
Wednesday: A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Sunny, with a high near 93. Calm wind becoming northeast around 5 mph.
Wednesday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 72. Calm wind.
Thursday: A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Sunny, with a high near 92. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Thursday Night: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1am. Partly cloudy, with a low around 71. West wind around 5 mph becoming calm.
Friday: A slight chance of showers, then showers and thunderstorms likely after 10am. Mostly sunny, with a high near 89. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph in the afternoon. Chance of precipitation is 60%.
Friday Night: A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 1am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 72. Calm wind.
Saturday: Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly after 1pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 87. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph. Chance of precipitation is 70%.
Saturday Night: A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1am. Partly cloudy, with a low around 71. Calm wind.
Sunday: A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 88.
Sunday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 70.
Monday: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Sunny, with a high near 90.
Monday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 68.
Tuesday: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Sunny, with a high near 88.
Iconic Civil Rights Leader H.K. Matthews Passes Away At 97
August 20, 2025
Iconic local civil rights leader Rev. H.K. Matthews, has passed away at age 97.
Matthews marched with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in the 1960s, was gassed and beaten on “Bloody Sunday” in 1965, and led sit-in lunch counter protests. In the 1970s, he led protests that led to the removal of the “Rebel” mascot from Escambia High School in Pensacola, and he led numerous protests that eventually led to his arrest and serving 63 days of a five year prison sentence. He was later pardoned.
After moving to Brewton, Alabama, he continued as a civil rights leader in South Alabama and Northwest Florida. The City of Pensacola renamed a park in his honor in 2006, and a street in Brewton was named after him in 2016.
In 2008, he worked to help Century keep the F-rated Carver/Century K-8 School and solve other local issues.
“There are a lot of things that are lacking as far as living in Century goes,” Matthews said during a 2008 meeting at Century Town Hall. “We are trying to find some answers to the problems that exist.” The school closed permanently a few months later.
Pictured: Rev. H.K. Matthews leads a meeting in 2008 at the Century Town Hall. NorthEscambia.com file photo.
Sheriff’s Office Issues Warning About Warrant Scam. Here’s How It Works.
August 20, 2025
The Escambia County Sheriff’s Office is once again warning about another warrant scam.
According to the ECSO, the scam involves callers identifying themselves as members of the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office. These imposters then claim that the recipient of the call has an outstanding warrant related to missed jury duty and demand payment to resolve the issue. Adding to the deception, the phone number displayed on caller ID may even appear similar to an official ECSO number, making it difficult for unsuspecting victims to immediately identify it as fraudulent.
“The Escambia County Sheriff’s Office will never call you and ask you to pay any amount of money,” the ECSO Said. “Do not send any form of payment or plan any meet-up if you receive a call such as this.”
Tate Aggies Beat The Crestview Bulldogs
August 20, 2025
The Tate Aggies varsity volleyball team defeated the Crestview Bulldogs in a conference match on Tuesday night, winning 3-1. The Aggies overcame an early deficit after dropping the first set in Crestview.
The Bulldogs started strong, winning the first set 25-21. However, the Aggies quickly recovered, battling back to win the second set by the same score, 25-21. This momentum carried through to the rest of the match.
The Aggies dominated the third set, taking a commanding 25-17 victory. In the final set, Crestview fought to stay in the game, but Tate’s consistent play secured the set 25-22, sealing their comeback victory.
Up next, the Aggies will travel to Navarre on Thursday.
Frank Lamar Hendrix
August 20, 2025
Mr. Frank Lamar Hendrix, 67 years old, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was originally from Flomaton, Alabama, but had spent most of his life in Byrneville. Frank will be remembered for his kindness and the warm memories he created with those around him.
He was a passionate fisherman who loved spending his weekends by the water, casting his line and waiting for the perfect catch. When he wasn’t fishing, you could find him in the great outdoors, enjoying a day of hunting or grilling up a delicious meal for his family. Football season was his favorite time of year, especially when Florida State played; he cheered loudly for his team while enjoying the excitement with friends and family. In quieter moments, he relaxed by watching the History Channel or ID TV, always eager to learn something new. No matter what he was doing, having his loved ones around made everything even better.
He is preceded in death by his parents, William Bill Hendrix and Dorithy Jean Cofield Johnson; step-father, Clyde Johnson; brothers, Ricky Hendrix, Lavon Hendrix, Terry “ToTo” Hendrix; sister, Ruby Jane White.
Mr. Hendrix is survived by his loving wife of forty-six years Dee Hendrix of Byrneville, Florida; son, Josh (Crystal) Hendrix of Festus, Missouri; daughter, Jessi (Roland) Hall of Byrneville, Florida; two brothers, Tim (Melody) Johnson of Cantonment, Florida and Jim (Melissa) Johnson of Flomaton, Alabama; two sisters, Jeannie Moye of Century, Florida; Linda (Bernard) Zimlich, of Bay Minette, Alabama, two grandchildren, Zane Hendrix and Ezra Hall.
Funeral Services will be held on Monday, August 25, 2025 at 4:30 PM at Petty Funeral Homes, LLC with Tom Kimmons and Jessi Hall officiating.
Visitation will be held on Monday, August 25, 2025 from 4:00 PM until 4:30PM at Petty Funeral Homes, LLC.
Pallbearers will be David Carden, James Dewberry, Shorty Madden, Ricky Lambeth, Brian Newby and Baxley Raines
Ronnie Ray Jackson
August 20, 2025
Mr. Ronnie Ray Jackson, who was 76 years old, sadly passed away on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, at his home, where he was surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Atmore and spent most of his life in Poarch, Alabama. Ronnie will be remembered for the warmth he brought to the lives of those who knew him.
He was a beloved figure in the Poarch community, known for starting the Poarch Christmas Parade and being a passionate Alabama fan. He loved coon hunting and treasured time spent with his family and friends. As a father and grandfather, he was dedicated and caring, always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone he met. His contributions were significant, especially in the REC Department, where he played a key role in laying the gym floor. In 1985, he helped establish the Poarch Fire Department, transforming it from a volunteer service to a professional department, serving as chief from 1985 to 2022. He also made his mark as a former Tribal Council Member and served on various boards, including NAYO and NASA. Over the years, he coached countless kids and adults in baseball and softball, leaving a lasting impact on many lives.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Alton and Mable McGhee Jackson; wife, Deborah Jackson; brother Larry Jackson; great-grandson, Brayden Jackson.
Mr. Jackson is survived by his two sons, Ronald Scott (Tammy) Jackson of Wetumpka, Alabama and Ernest “Bubba” Rolin of Poarch, Alabama; two daughters, Nioma (Shawn) Till of Frisco City, Alabama and Tammy (Mike) Gaffrey of Atmore, Alabama; two brothers, Don (Marcia Ann) Jackson of Brewton, Alabama and Eddie “Dinky” Jackson of Atmore, Alabama; sister, Catherine Sells of Poarch, Alabama; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Funeral service will be held Saturday, August 23, 2025 at 11:00 AM at McCullough Christian Center with Reverend William Bubba Rolin and Reverend Steve Breceda officiating.
Burial will follow Judson Creek Indian Cemetery.
Visitation will be held Friday, August 22, 2025 from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM at McCullough Christian Center.
Pallbearers will be Robert Johnson, Kevin Baggett, Spencer Williamson, Cade Langham, Dylan Byrd and William Ervin.
Honorary Pallbearers will be All Former Poarch Softball Teams.
Petty Funeral Homes, LLC Atmore, Alabama is in entrusted with of all arrangements