Public Meetings - Jacksonville, Florida

The Jacksonville City Council Rules Committee met on Monday, August 3, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 10:08 AM in the Council Chamber. Chair Mike Gay presided with all seven members present. The committee considered a full agenda of legislative items, including deferrals, approvals, emergency actions, and second readings, covering topics such as budget transfers, homelessness initiatives, public safety, and board appointments. Public Comments & Testimony - John Nooney (self-identified as John Philanthropic Jelly Roll Nooney, 8356 Baskum Road) spoke to a variety of agenda items, referencing manatee postage stamps, the Trump Doge Club, and his intent to make donations. He also mentioned missing a ribbon-cutting ceremony and requested pardons from President Trump and Governor DeSantis. His comments were not directly tied to a specific bill under consideration. - Brenda Boydston appeared for questions only regarding the Salvation Army bill (2026-0571) but did not speak. - Gary Monahan (TECO/People’s Gas, 40 Phillips Highway) spoke on item 52 (2026-0614) supporting the recognition of August 11, 2026, as “Sunshine 811 Day.” He emphasized that Florida leads the nation in underground utility damages and urged residents and contractors to call 811 before digging. He answered questions about marketing campaigns and contractor education. Discussion Items - Two-Year Rule for Pending Bills: Discussion arose on item 1 (2024-0627) regarding the Council rule that bills older than two years from introduction (here, August 13, 2024) are administratively withdrawn. Council President Freeman and others expressed a desire to clear aged items rather than let them linger. The committee noted that a two-thirds vote of the full Council could postpone a bill for an additional 60 days. - Homelessness Funding and Strategy: Item 14 (2026-0542) appropriated $413,900 from the Homelessness Initiatives Special Revenue Fund for a direct contract with I.M. Sulzbacher Center to provide 32 female shelter beds. Council Member Salem praised the city’s progress on homelessness but expressed concern about maintaining funding under budget constraints. Council Member Boylan noted a migration of homeless individuals from downtown to suburbs. Council Member Lahnen confirmed that after this and another pending bill, approximately $690,000 would remain in the fund. Council Member Freeman queried how the bill originated given the absence of a mayoral liaison to the Homelessness Initiatives Commission. - Public Purpose of CBA Dollars: On item 15 (2026-0543), which appropriated $150,000 from Council District 5 CBA funds to Zawyer Sports Foundation for the Duval County Community Impact Initiative, Council Member Amaro raised questions about whether the expenditure met the public purpose requirements of the community benefits agreement. Finance Chair Lahnen responded that district CBA dollars are at the discretion of the district council member and do not require the same countywide workforce or homelessness criteria. - E-Bike Regulation: Council Member Boylan introduced an ordinance (2026-0570) on electric bicycles. He announced he would hold a noticed meeting to discuss the bill and provide a comparison to the vetoed state Senate Bill 382. Council Member Salem requested a side-by-side chart. - Excavation Safety Awareness: On item 52, Council Members Pittman and Gay discussed the importance of public education on calling 811 before digging, particularly for small businesses and homeowners. Gay noted that contractors receive this training during continuing education. Key Outcomes - Deferrals: Items 1–9 (2024-0627 through 2026-0376) were deferred at the request of the respective sponsoring council members. Item 10 (2026-0517, appointment of Julio Alayo) was deferred due to the appointee’s absence. Item 16 (2026-0545) was deferred at administration’s request. - Withdrawal: Item 19 (2026-0548, appointment of Joshua Taylor) was withdrawn unanimously (7-0). - Appointments Approved: - Item 17 (2026-0546): Alicia Somers to the Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville (7-0). - Item 18 (2026-0547): Arlene Lloyd to the Cultural Council (7-0). - Budget and Contract Approvals: - Item 11 (2026-0535): Amendment and approval (7-0) of $390,000 for Trout River Blvd intersection improvements and sidewalk/ADA ramps. - Item 12 (2026-0539): Approval (7-0) of $115,000 for Tax Collector postage costs. - Item 14 (2026-0542): Amendment and approval (7-0) of $413,900 for Sulzbacher homeless shelter beds. - Item 15 (2026-0543): Amendment and approval (6-0) of $150,000 for Zawyer Sports Foundation. - Emergency Approvals: - Item 22 (2026-0571): Emergency passage (7-0) of $150,000 to the Salvation Army for the Homeless to Work program. - Item 25 (2026-0577): Emergency passage (7-0) of $50,000 to First Coast Crime Stoppers for Operation Community Shield. - Items 41, 42, 45 (2026-0602, 0603, 0606): Emergency approvals (7-0 each) to appoint CP Nick Howland, CVP Joe Carlucci, and CM Kevin Carrico to the Duval County Tourist Development Council. - Resolutions Approved: - Item 51 (2026-0613): Honoring Duval County Public Schools for an “A” grade from the Florida Department of Education (7-0). - Item 52 (2026-0614): Recognizing August 11, 2026, as “Sunshine 811 Day” (7-0). - Item 55 (2026-0617): Honoring former Council Member Harry S. Reagan (7-0). - Second Readings: Items 20, 21, 23, 24, 26–40, 43, 44, 46–50, 53, and 54 were read a second time and rereferred to appropriate committees for further hearing.

The Neighborhoods, Community Services, Public Health and Safety Committee met on Monday, August 3, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 2:14 PM in the Council Chamber. The committee considered 33 agenda items, including numerous deferrals, amendments, and emergency passages. Key discussions centered on grant forgiveness for the Fraternal Order of Police Foundation, funding for homeless shelter beds, a public-private partnership for downtown riverfront parks, a lease for a new JSO District 3 substation, and dredging of Deep Bottom Creek. Public Comments & Testimony - Carnell Oliver commented on items 2026-0535, 2026-0536, and 2026-0537, urging policy to ensure equitable funding distribution across districts, particularly for American freedmen communities. - John Nooney commented on multiple items, including 2026-0552 (JRA), 2026-0580 (Deep Bottom Creek), and others, advocating for sending certain items to the Waterways committee and suggesting funding reallocations. - Dragon Belloit expressed support for 2026-0536 (art show funding) and 2026-0542 (Sulzbacher shelter) and opposition to 2026-0537 (FOP Foundation forgiveness), arguing non-compliance should not be forgiven. Discussion Items - 2026-0537 – Forgiveness for FOP Foundation: Councilmember White introduced the bill to forgive the Jacksonville Fraternal Order of Police Foundation's non-compliance with audit reporting requirements. David Kilcrease, Treasurer, explained the foundation submitted a limited-scope audit focusing on city funds, but a full entity audit was required. Councilmembers discussed the onerousness of the requirement for small organizations. Vice Chair Clark-Murray noted other organizations submitted nothing. Councilmember Salem called the ordinance intrusive and suggested changing it. The bill passed 7-0. - 2026-0542 – Sulzbacher Shelter Funding: The committee amended and approved $413,900 for a direct contract with I.M. Sulzbacher Center for the Homeless to provide 32 female shelter beds. Councilmembers expressed strong support, noting the critical need for female beds. Councilmember Peluso and others added as co-sponsors. - 2026-0552 – Jacksonville Riverfront Alliance (JRA): After a lengthy amendment presented by the Council Auditor, the committee approved $1,570,159 (reduced from $1,682,318) for JRA to manage and program downtown riverfront parks, with the city retaining maintenance responsibilities. Daryl Joseph, Parks Department, stated the agreement includes safeguards such as council approval for significant changes and audit rights. Councilmembers praised the public-private partnership. - 2026-0571 – Salvation Army Homeless to Work Program: Emergency approval granted for $150,000 to the Salvation Army for a work program. Councilmember Carlucci indicated he would pursue additional funding. Passed 7-0. - 2026-0580 – Deep Bottom Creek Dredging: Emergency approval for $750,000 from Councilmember Boylan's CBA funds for dredging. A special taxing district will handle future maintenance. Councilmembers commended the effort. - 2026-0586 – JSO District 3 Substation Lease: Emergency approval of a 10-year lease for a new substation at $12,666.89/month, with 2.98% annual increases. Councilmembers questioned the move from a rent-free space to a costly lease. JSO representatives explained the current landlord would not renew and a two-year search led to the new location. Concerns about location further from Mandarin were raised. The bill passed as an emergency 7-0. - Other items: Numerous items on second reading were approved without debate, including electric bicycle regulations, MOU with Atlantic Beach, funding for Operation New Uniform, First Coast Crime Stoppers, Trinity Rescue Mission, and various capital improvement corrections. Key Outcomes - Approved (7-0): 2026-0535 (Trout River Blvd improvements), 2026-0536 (Art show funding), 2026-0537 (FOP Foundation forgiveness), 2026-0538 (CIP corrections), 2026-0539 (Tax collector postage), 2026-0540 (Honorary street naming), 2026-0542 (Sulzbacher shelter), 2026-0543 (Zawyer Sports Foundation), 2026-0552 (JRA riverfront parks), 2026-0571 (Salvation Army), 2026-0577 (First Coast Crime Stoppers), 2026-0580 (Deep Bottom Creek dredging), 2026-0586 (JSO substation lease). - Deferred: 2024-0966, 2025-0361, 2026-0227, 2026-0318, 2026-0320, 2026-0377, 2026-0541 (at request of DIA). - Second reading items referred to other committees: 2026-0570 (e-bikes), 2026-0574 (Stand for Service Act), 2026-0575 (Operation New Uniform), 2026-0578 (Trinity Rescue Mission), 2026-0579 (Made A Way Foundation), 2026-0583 (CRA trust clean-up), 2026-0584 (Sax Seafood demolition), 2026-0585 (Shipyards amendment), 2026-0587 (Chaffee Rd eminent domain), 2026-0588 (Arlington housing REV grant), 2026-0590 (Firearm preemption). - Directives: Councilmember Salem and others expressed intent to revisit audit requirements for small nonprofits. Councilmember Boylan noted the Deep Bottom Creek Special District will maintain the creek post-dredging.

A City Council workshop was held on July 30, 2026, from approximately 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM to discuss a proposed bill addressing demolition by neglect in historic neighborhoods. Councilmembers Jamie Peluso (sponsor), Matt Carlucci, Ron Salem, Joe Carlucci, and others participated along with planning staff, the Office of General Counsel, and representatives from preservation organizations. The bill aims to create a process for the city to foreclose on neglected historic residential properties, offer them to nonprofits for rehabilitation, and if not taken, auction them to qualified bidders. Public Comments & Testimony - Catherine Barrill, a resident of Springfield, expressed concern that giving first dibs to nonprofits like SPAR could exclude individual residents who could rehabilitate homes, and questioned whether nonprofits have proven financing. - Julia Epstein, an architect and vice chair of the Demolition by Neglect Task Force, thanked the council for the bill, emphasized the need for consequences for neglect, and suggested refining the two-year rehabilitation timeline to account for permitting delays and unforeseen conditions. - Dr. Wayne Wood, a historian, strongly supported the bill, noting that neglect of one house can lead to block deterioration, and advocated for retaining the nonprofit-first structure. - David Shachter, a home builder in Springfield, supported preservation but warned that many severely dilapidated houses may be economically unviable to restore even if given away for free, and suggested the city consider grants or a revolving loan fund to supplement the program. Discussion Items - Councilmember Peluso introduced the bill, explaining it was based on recommendations from the Demolition by Neglect Task Force. The bill would have the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) create a list of endangered historic properties with city liens, allow the city to initiate foreclosure, and then dispose of city-owned properties first to nonprofits with a mission of historic preservation, then to qualified bidders after a two-hour educational course. - Councilmembers discussed the scope: the bill applies to locally designated historic districts and landmarks, not contributing structures outside such districts. It currently covers single-family homes but will be amended to include duplexes, triplexes, and quadplexes. - Several amendments were proposed and generally agreed upon: (1) HPC to produce a list of at-risk properties at least twice a year instead of annually; (2) add San Marco Preservation Society and other named organizations to the list of eligible nonprofits; (3) require that second-tier nonprofits have housing and/or historic preservation as a primary mission; (4) clarify that the two-year rehabilitation timeline begins at title transfer, with a one-year extension possible; (5) include a provision that properties subject to emergency demolition be referred for foreclosure; (6) exclude owner-occupied/homesteaded properties from the initial listing. - Councilmember Ron Salem inquired about the number of affected properties, with estimates of 70-100 in Springfield alone. Councilmember Joe Carlucci suggested that auction proceeds could be directed into a revolving fund for historic rehabilitation, though this was not formally added. - Councilmember Matt Carlucci expressed support and asked to be listed as a co-sponsor, and noted interest in exploring a public-private partnership for additional funding. - Concerns were raised about the economic viability of restoring the most deteriorated properties, with developers noting that even free acquisition may not cover restoration costs. Key Outcomes - The bill will be amended as discussed, including changes to the listing frequency (twice yearly), property types (up to quadplexes), nonprofit eligibility, timeline clarification, and emergency demolition referrals. - No formal vote was taken; the workshop served to gather input and refine the legislation before committee hearings. - Councilmember Matt Carlucci committed to exploring a revolving fund or public-private partnership to provide additional financial support for rehabs. - The meeting adjourned with appreciation for participants.

On July 30, 2026, city officials and project team members presented proposed street redesigns for Monroe Street, Riverside Avenue, and Forest Street in the Brooklyn and La Villa neighborhoods. The workshop aimed to gather public input on low-cost, fast-implementation projects designed to improve pedestrian and bicycle safety, add parking, and enhance connectivity. The team emphasized a cost of approximately $100,000 per project and a completion timeline of 2027. No formal votes were taken. Public Comments & Testimony - A resident asked whether the project would involve resurfacing or just striping; the team clarified it is only striping, which keeps costs low. - A resident asked about the potential for increased traffic due to future growth; Satcha explained that the traffic study applied a growth rate and accounted for planned developments, such as the redevelopment of the Haskell building. - A resident asked about using concrete barriers to prevent drivers from inadvertently using the parking lane; the team responded that concrete islands would be placed at the beginning of parking lanes and at turning points, and green symbols would also be used. - A resident asked about marketing the changes to the community to ensure understanding and adoption; the team acknowledged this was a fair point but noted that marketing is not part of the current project scope. Discussion Items - Jimmy Peluso opened with remarks expressing strong support for bike and pedestrian infrastructure, noting that such projects are low-cost and connect to the Emerald Trail and other recent investments like the McCoy's Creek daylighting and the North Bank riverwalk. - Lee presented the problems and proposed solutions for each street: - Monroe Street: Currently three one-way lanes encouraging speeding, no bike lanes, confusing navigation. Proposal: two-way two-lane street with bike lanes, connecting to the Emerald Trail and extending toward the courthouse. - Riverside Avenue: Six lanes with no on-street parking, narrow unprotected bike lanes, high-speed traffic close to sidewalks. Proposal: reduce lanes, add on-street parking that will act as a buffer for protected bike lanes, and move moving traffic further from the sidewalk. - Forest Street: Six lanes with no protection for bike lanes, and a missing crosswalk at Magnolia Street where pedestrians have worn a path. Proposal: convert outside lane to parking (protecting bike lanes), add a pedestrian crossing at Magnolia Street. - Satcha presented the traffic study methodology and results: - Study used drone video, field evaluations, and a 20-year horizon with opening year and design year. - Level of service (LOS) metrics: Monroe Street will maintain LOS A/B through 2050; Riverside Avenue will maintain LOS C or better; Forest Street corridor will operate well except at Park Street intersection (LOS E in PM peak), which is outside the project scope. - Travel times are expected to remain unchanged on all corridors. - Matt presented safety data: Jacksonville was ranked the 16th most dangerous city for pedestrians in the 2025 Dangerous by Design report, though pedestrian fatalities have declined for three consecutive years. The city's Vision Zero Action Plan recommends designs like the proposed parking-protected bike lanes, which buffer cyclists from moving traffic and reduce the risk of being doored. Key Outcomes - No formal decisions or votes were taken; the meeting was a public input session. - Attendees were encouraged to submit feedback via comment cards or email. - The project team stated that construction is expected to begin in 2027, with all three projects moving forward simultaneously.

The Jacksonville City Council met on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, at 5:00 PM in the Council Chamber. The meeting was called to order by Council President Nick Howland and adjourned at 9:00 PM. The council considered a wide range of items including quasi-judicial rezoning approvals, consent agenda items, public hearings on land use changes, third-reading ordinances, and the introduction of new legislation. A key highlight was the failure of a veto override attempt regarding board appointments to the Kids Hope Alliance (KHA) and Library Board. The meeting included an invocation by Pastor Spike Hogan, a presentation honoring his retirement, and approximately 90 minutes of public comment on topics such as the Free to Garden Act, overdevelopment, city budget priorities, and mental health response. Consent Calendar - 2026-0453 (Appropriation to cure negative cash balances and fund economic incentives) was withdrawn. - 2026-0496 (Appropriation for FDEP Parks Invasive Species Removal Initiative) was approved. - 2026-0515 (Confirmation of Michelle Begley as Chief of Accounting) was approved. - 2026-0516 (Appointment of Corey Ford to Construction Trades Qualifying Board) was withdrawn. - 2026-0551 (Resolution commemorating the 158th Anniversary of Mount Olive AME Church) was approved. All consent items passed by a vote of 17–0. Public Comments & Testimony - Free to Garden Act: Multiple speakers, including Kim Fontecchio, Roxy McLeod, Nathan Ballantyne, and others, urged the council to pass the Home Occupation Bill and sponsor the Free to Garden Act to make community and market gardens permissible by right. They emphasized food security, community building, and economic benefits. - Overdevelopment and Stadium: Speakers such as Kathleen Pereira and Miriam Corney opposed the proposed Sporting JAX soccer stadium and development in Big Island Swamp, citing flooding risks, tree canopy loss, and traffic congestion. - Charlie Kirk Recognition: Chaplain Jerry Woodham requested that October 14th be declared Charlie Kirk Remembrance Day, while others opposed honoring him, describing him as a bigot. - Budget Priorities: Several speakers from the Jacksonville Community Action Committee (JCAC) called for reallocating funds from the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office to mental health services, community gardens, and other social programs. - FOP Foundation Forgiveness: Speakers Samantha Searys, Jamie Travis Leonard, and Nancy Murray Settle opposed Bill 2026-0537, arguing that the Fraternal Order of Police Foundation should not be forgiven for failing to submit required audits. - Animal Welfare: Jennifer Joyner requested increased funding for spay/neuter and Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) programs. - Flock Cameras: Dragon Beloit raised concerns about privacy and safety of Flock cameras in neighborhoods. - Other Issues: Michelle Wilson described ongoing noise and safety issues from a business in her residential neighborhood; John Nooney spoke on various topics including waterways and trust funds. Discussion Items - Quasi-Judicial Rezonings: - 2026-0438 (Kirk Rd PUD for single-family housing) approved 17–0. - 2026-0439 (Church at Chet’s Creek PUD for modernized church facilities) approved 17–0, with Council Members Carlucci and Lahnen declaring ex parte communications. - Public Hearings on Land Use Amendments: - 2026-0477/0478 (Kings Trail): The San Jose Neighborhood Association presented substantial evidence including a traffic study, requesting conditions for traffic, buffering, and building heights. The applicant’s representative, Paul Harden, argued that the traffic concerns were overstated. The public hearing was continued to August 11, 2026. - 2026-0428/0429 (City Rescue Mission): Multiple speakers supported the rezoning to allow expansion for dormitory, dining hall, and transitional housing. Council Member Clark-Murray declared ex parte communications. The bills were approved 17–0. - 2026-0422/0423 (Outdoor Depot), 2026-0424/0425 (Pickettville), 2026-0426/0427 (Imeson), 2026-0432/0433 (Barth Rd): Approved unanimously (15–0 or 17–0) after closed public hearings. - Third-Reading Ordinances: - 2026-0445 (SPAR Springfield Cleanup Corps) and 2026-0493 (Deerwood/Fort Family Parks) passed with required two-thirds majorities (17–0 and 18–0, respectively). - 2026-0489 (Homelessness Initiatives Commission) was withdrawn by sponsor Council Member Peluso after committee disagreements. - 2026-0490 (HOME Investment Partnership Grant) was initially approved 16–0–1, then reconsidered and approved 17–0 after Council Member Pittman clarified her abstention was for a different item. - 2026-0491 (CDBG Grant) was approved 16–0–2 after a floor amendment from Council Member Peluso to correct budget exhibits (including removing Edward Waters University project from CIP due to it being on private property). Council Members Pittman and Carrico abstained. - Veto Override (2025-0872): The council considered overriding the mayor’s veto of an ordinance that would give the council appointment power to the KHA and Library Boards. After extensive debate, the motion to override failed 11–7 (11 yes, 7 no), short of the required 12 votes. Supporters argued for co-equal branch authority and budget oversight; opponents cited potential disruption and partisan power grab. Key Outcomes - Votes on Rezonings: Approved quasi-judicial items 2026-0438 and 2026-0439 (17–0 each). Approved land use amendments and rezoning for Outdoor Depot (15–0), Pickettville (15–0), Imeson (15–0), City Rescue Mission (17–0), and Barth Rd (17–0). - Third-Reading Approvals: - Warren A. Jones Baseball Complex naming approved 17–0. - SPAR Springfield Cleanup Corps additional funding ($200,000) approved 17–0. - SHIP Local Housing Assistance Plan amendments (two ordinances) approved 17–0. - Noxious Weeds code amendment approved 18–0. - Foreclosure Registry funding ($1,471,237.53) approved 18–0. - Timuquan Trail Segment C funding ($1,700,000) approved 18–0. - Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS grant ($3,269,046.69) approved 16–0–1. - SHIP grant ($7,737,038.90) approved 18–0. - Emergency Solutions Grant ($610,307.44) approved 17–0–1. - Deerwood and Fort Family Parks funding ($1,358,150) approved 18–0. - Veto Override Failed (11–7): Ordinance 2025-0872 regarding KHA and Library Board appointments will not become law. - Emergencies Approved: - Resolution advising Property Appraiser of proposed millage rates (17–1). - Appointments to Value Adjustment Board, Canvassing Board, and other boards (unanimous or near-unanimous). - Rescheduling committee meetings due to primary and general election dates (18–0). - Sovereignty submerged lands lease renewal for a 78-slip marina (18–0). - Withdrawals: 2026-0453, 2026-0516, 2026-0489, and 2026-0591 were withdrawn.

This informal sunshine meeting of the Jacksonville City Council was held on July 28, 2026, at 2:35 PM. The main topic was a proposal to honor former Councilmember Warren A. Jones by naming the back wall of the council chambers the "Warren A. Jones Wall of Council Presidents." Councilmembers also discussed a street naming for Dr. Gopel and a council modernization initiative. Discussion Items - Warren A. Jones Wall of Council Presidents: Councilmember Matt Carlucci proposed naming the back wall of the chambers after Warren Jones, who served 28 years on the council, including two consecutive terms as council president. Carlucci presented a draft ordinance that would also ensure the wall's name would be permanent even if City Hall moved. Councilmember Rockman Johnson expressed support but suggested a more prominent honor, such as naming the entire chamber, citing Jones's historic service and the need for greater visibility. Councilmember Michael Boylan opposed naming the chamber, arguing it belongs to the citizens, and supported the wall proposal. Councilmember Tyrona Clark Murray was initially blindsided but indicated she would process the idea. Carlucci emphasized the historical importance of recognizing a trailblazing Black councilmember and stated he would prepare the bill for introduction after the July holiday, seeking co-sponsors and avoiding controversy. - Gopel Way Street Naming: Carlucci introduced a bill to rename a block of Kingsbury Road as "Gopel Way" in honor of Dr. Gopel, a beloved veterinarian and soccer player who lived on the street for nearly 40 years. The bill passed the 911 addressing committee unanimously, and no affected addresses exist. Councilmembers expressed support, and several agreed to co-sponsor. - Council Modernization Initiative: Councilmember Rockman Johnson outlined a "council modernization initiative" to recognize the full-time nature of council service. He proposed a legislative track with an enhanced option that would prohibit outside full-time employment but allow consulting or small businesses. The goal is to make service accessible while preserving the consolidated government structure. Carlucci and Clark Murray offered feedback, and Johnson will share a written paper once completed. Public Comments - John, a member of the public, spoke in support of honoring Warren Jones, highlighting his role in creating a kayak launch at McCoy's Creek. He noted that the launch is not listed on official maps and praised Jones's contributions to Jacksonville's waterways. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken. Carlucci will finalize the ordinance for the Warren A. Jones Wall of Council Presidents and introduce it after the July holiday, with Council President Nick Hallen and others as co-introducers. The bill will include a plaque and provisions for perpetuity. - The Gopel Way street naming bill will proceed to council with co-sponsors. - Johnson will continue developing the modernization initiative and share it with colleagues for feedback.

The first meeting of the Financial Audit and Oversight (FAO) Select Committee was held on July 27, 2026, at 10:00 AM in the Council Chamber. Chaired by Council Member Ron Salem, the committee was established to examine unbilled water capacity fees, as identified by the Inspector General. The meeting focused on an update from the Council Auditors on the extent of uncollected capacity fees and the path forward for resolution. Discussion Items - Capacity Fee Audit Findings: Brian Parks of the Council Auditors Office presented the audit results. The maximum amount not collected by JEA since 2003 on meters 3 inches and larger is approximately $75 million, of which about $20 million is related to multifamily units. After further analysis, the true maximum may be around $55 million. Parks emphasized that not all flagged customers necessarily owe additional fees, as the tariff requires a change in operations, not just exceeding 20% of baseline flow. The auditors' calculation method yielded $75 million, while JEA's method resulted in $25 million. The difference stems from methodology: auditors re-established baseline each year the 20% threshold was tripped, while JEA used a single baseline from 2003-2005. Recent years (post-2021) account for about $35 million of the potential amount due to higher capacity fee rates. - Legal and Collectibility Questions: Council members discussed the statute of limitations (typically 5 years for written contracts) and whether amounts are uncollected or unbilled. Council President Howland noted that since no invoices were sent, it is more accurate to call them "unbilled" fees. Chair Salem raised the question of customer responsibility to report expansions. Council Vice President Carlucci asked about the impact of the statute of limitations, suggesting that amounts pre-2021 may be irrelevant. - JEA's Response and Plans: Rob Zimintero, JEA Chief Water System Officer, stated that JEA is working on two separate policies: one for going forward (modifying billing systems and writing a policy for who identifies the 20% threshold) and one for retroactive collection. Both policies are expected to be presented to the JEA Board by early next year. JEA aims to be fair and equitable, and will address customer appeals and outreach. - Accountability and Oversight: Council Member Miller asked about accountability for the 55-year-old issue. Zimintero acknowledged it was a long-standing miss that became business as normal, but current leadership is committed to fixing it. Inspector General Matt LaSelle confirmed that JEA has been cooperative and that the CEO has committed to conducting the process in the sunshine. He supported the auditors' follow-up review once policies are implemented. - Future Reporting: The committee discussed the need for periodic progress reports. Chair Salem suggested reports every 60 days, but it was noted that the FAO committee has a 60-day lifespan (effective July 20, ending September 18, 2026). President Howland proposed that after the committee ends, reports could go to the Finance Committee. The auditors will conduct a follow-up audit in early 2027 to ensure the new system is working. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken. The committee reached consensus on the following directives: - JEA will develop two policies (forward-looking and retroactive) and present them to the JEA Board by early 2027, with the process conducted in the sunshine. - JEA will provide periodic progress reports to the Council, initially to the FAO committee and then to the Finance Committee after the FAO committee expires. - The Council Auditors Office will conduct a follow-up audit in early 2027 to verify that the new billing system and policies are functioning as intended. - The Inspector General's office will continue to monitor the situation and coordinate with the auditors on the follow-up.

The Transportation, Energy & Utilities Committee of the Jacksonville City Council met on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, from 9:01 AM to 9:13 AM in the Council Chamber. Chair Ken Amaro presided, with members Ju'Coby Pittman (excused late arrival), Raul Arias (excused), Matt Carlucci (excused late arrival), Tyrona Clark-Murray, Reggie Gaffney, Jr., and Jimmy Peluso present. Council President Nick Howland attended as a visitor. The meeting featured a single legislative item on second reading, a discussion of new attendance rules, and a preview of future emergency legislation. Discussion Items - New Council Attendance Rules: Carla Schell, Office of General Counsel, explained that effective July 1, 2026, no more than one Council Member may be excused from a regular standing committee meeting, with exceptions for medical reasons or military service. Quorum for standing committees is now five members. Chair Amaro stated he would be lenient on last-minute excusal requests but preferred advance notice. CM Clark-Murray reminded members that standing committee meetings now start at 9:00 AM, not 9:30 AM. - Council President's Remarks: Council President Howland welcomed the committee to the new council year and expressed a desire to assign more legislation to the committee, particularly regarding JTA and JEA. CM Carlucci appreciated this direction and noted the committee's importance for infrastructure, utilities, and septic tank replacements. - Future Agenda and Presentations: Chair Amaro stated he would like to receive informative presentations during the year on topics such as septic tank phaseout, JTA, and JEA, and was open to suggestions from committee members. - Preview of Future Marina Legislation: Paul Harden informed the committee about a pending marina construction project near the Four Seasons. He described an amendment to an existing submerged land lease between the City and the State, adding approximately 1,200 square feet and new amenities. The proposed legislation would be introduced as an emergency at the next City Council meeting on July 28, 2026, to allow availability before the first football game. Council President Howland noted that Mr. Harden was visiting committees in advance to answer questions. Legislative Item - Item 2026-0540 – Street Renaming for Dr. Devegowda Gopal: An ordinance to establish an honorary street designation for Dr. Devegowda Gopal on Kingsbury Street in Council District 9, install two honorary roadway markers, and rename a portion of Kingsbury Street between Fountain Road and Ellis Road South to “Gopal Way.” The ordinance also waives the requirement that street name changes apply to the entire length of the street. The item was read a second time and rereferred without discussion or public comment. A public hearing pursuant to Chapter 745, Ordinance Code, is scheduled for August 4, 2026, and a public hearing pursuant to Chapter 166, Florida Statutes, and Council Rule 3.601 on July 28, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comment cards were submitted. Key Outcomes - The committee read Item 2026-0540 a second time and rereferred it, with no action required at this meeting. - The committee was briefed on upcoming emergency legislation (submerged land lease amendment) to be introduced at the July 28, 2026, City Council meeting.

The Land Use & Zoning Committee of the Jacksonville City Council met on July 21, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 7:07 PM in the Council Chamber, City Hall. Chair Joe Carlucci presided with members Kevin Carrico, Reggie Gaffney Jr., Rahman Johnson, and Randy White present; Rory Diamond (excused for military leave) and Raul Arias (absent without excusal) were not present. Council President Nick Howland attended, and Councilwoman Ju'Coby Clark-Murray attended for items in her district. The committee considered over 40 agenda items, including zoning and land use amendments, a home occupations ordinance, and a zoning exception. Preliminary Presentation - Submerged Land Lease Paul Harden, representing the city, presented a request for an amended submerged land lease for the marina at the Four Seasons development on the North Bank River Walk. The lease expansion of approximately 20,000 square feet would allow additional activities and 78 boat slips. The city aims to have it approved by the next council meeting to generate revenue for the first football game. Councilwoman Clark-Murray clarified this is not a zoning bill. Public Comments & Testimony - Jamie Travis-Leonard (address on file) appeared in opposition to numerous items, including the Old Kings Road manufactured home PUD, the Rampart Road industrial park, the Pitts Road auto sales, and the Acree PUD expansion. She also spoke in support of the Barth Road PUD (2026-0433), commending the applicant for community consideration. - Samantha Ceres (address on file) appeared in opposition to those same items but did not speak. - Randy Baker spoke in support of the Outdoor Depot FLUM amendment and rezoning (items 2026-0422/0423). - Curtis Hart supported the Pickettville Road FLUM amendment and rezoning (items 2026-0424/0425), noting the site is a former fire station. - Brenda Ezell supported the Imeson Road FLUM amendment and rezoning (items 2026-0426/0427). - Paul Stasi (Executive Director, City Rescue Mission) and Richie Mullaney (Driver McAfee) supported the City Rescue Mission campus expansion (items 2026-0428/0429), providing details on the 80-year-old organization's Vision 2046 plan. - Kristen Reed supported the Barth Road FLUM amendment and PUD (items 2026-0432/0433), explaining the transition of uses. - Peter King (North Florida Land Trust) supported the Ragland Landings PUD (2026-0435), proposing a 320-unit mixed residential development with affordable housing and a preserve. - Earl Allen (resident of Kirk Road) supported the Kirk Road PUD (2026-0438), expressing hope for neighborhood revitalization. - Steve Matchett, Michael Milton, and Louis Joseph opposed the St. Nicholas PUD amendment (2026-0437), citing concerns about vague plans, traffic impacts, and lack of community input. - Barbara Erzinger supported the Girvin Road road frontage waiver and administrative deviation (items 2026-0487/0488), explaining the request to place a mobile home for family reunification. Discussion Items - City Rescue Mission Campus Expansion (Items 2026-0428/0429): The committee approved both the FLUM amendment (RPI/LDR to CGC) and the PUD rezoning to allow a dormitory, dining hall, transitional housing, and clinic. Despite the Planning Department's condition to limit transitional housing height to 35 feet to protect adjacent single-family homes, Councilmember Carrico moved to approve without the condition, arguing the 50-foot height (four stories) is needed for capacity and is comparable to the existing 56-foot building. The motion passed 5-0. Councilwoman Clark-Murray noted the applicant met with the Lackawanna community and has been a good neighbor. - Ragland Landings PUD (Item 2026-0435): Councilwoman Clark-Murray requested a two-cycle deferral to allow the applicant to present to the Southwest CPAC, which had not met in July. After discussion, Councilmember Gaffney proposed a one-cycle deferral, but the motion failed for lack of a second. The applicant noted time constraints. The public hearing was continued to August 4, 2026, after the chair withdrew a deferral motion. Council President Howland suggested community engagement options. No vote on approval. - St. Nicholas PUD Amendment (Item 2026-0437): Several residents opposed the vague proposal to add commercial uses (hotel, retail, restaurants) to an existing PUD for a 7.14-acre site on Atlantic Boulevard. They cited traffic concerns and the lack of specific plans, calling it a "blank check." The applicant, Andre Green, said traffic would be vetted by FDOT. Chair Carlucci tabled the item to meet with stakeholders, and later continued the public hearing to August 4, 2026. - Kirk Road PUD (Item 2026-0438): The committee approved a PUD for up to 150 single-family homes on 23 acres east of Main Street North. A speaker opposed the density due to traffic, but the committee voted 4-0 in favor (Chair Carlucci did not vote). Councilmembers declared ex-parte communications. - Church at Chets Creek PUD (Item 2026-0439): Approved 4-0, allowing increased signage and ancillary uses (daycare, school) to modernize the church facility. - Baran Cafe Zoning Exception (Item 2026-0486): Councilmember Carrico requested a one-cycle deferral because the applicant did not contact his office. The public hearing was continued to August 4, 2026. - Girvin Road Waiver and Deviation (Items 2026-0487/0488): The Planning Department recommended denial for a waiver of road frontage (from 240 ft to 0 ft) and an administrative deviation to allow a third dwelling on a 3.42-acre lot with non-conforming homes. The applicant's representative requested approval for family reunification. The committee deferred both items to August 4, 2026, to allow Councilmember Lahnen to weigh in. Key Outcomes Approved (unanimous votes): - 2026-0422: FLUM amendment (9.31 acres, LI to HI) at Old Kings Rd for Outdoor Depot (5-0). - 2026-0423: Rezoning (IL to IH) same property (5-0). - 2026-0424: FLUM amendment (4.42 acres, LDR to LI) at Pickettville Rd (5-0). - 2026-0425: Rezoning to PUD for outdoor storage (Pickettville) with conditions (5-0). - 2026-0426: FLUM amendment (4.57 acres, RPI to LI) at Imeson Rd (5-0). - 2026-0427: Rezoning to IL at Imeson Rd (5-0). - 2026-0428: FLUM amendment (3.61 acres, RPI/LDR to CGC) for City Rescue Mission (5-0). - 2026-0429: Rezoning to PUD for City Rescue Mission (without height condition) (5-0). - 2026-0432: FLUM amendment (2.28 acres, LDR to BP/LI) at Barth Rd (5-0). - 2026-0433: Rezoning to PUD for truck/trailer storage (Barth Rd) with traffic study condition (5-0). - 2026-0438: Rezoning to PUD for single-family subdivision (Kirk Rd) (4-0, Chair abstained). - 2026-0439: Rezoning to PUD for Church at Chets Creek (4-0). Deferred or Continued (public hearings continued to future dates): - Continued to August 4, 2026: Items 2026-0122, 0123, 0126, 0127, 0372, 0376, 0420, 0421, 0430, 0431, 0434, 0435, 0437, 0475, 0476, 0477, 0478, 0479, 0480, 0481, 0482, 0483, 0484, 0485, 0486, 0487, 0488. - Continued to November 17, 2026: Items 2026-0124, 0125. - Continued to August 18, 2026: Item 2026-0436. - Items on second reading (2026-0523 through 2026-0544) were read and rereferred, with public hearings scheduled for future dates (mostly August 18, 2026 or later). Notable: - The committee deferred action on Ragland Landings (2026-0435) to August 4 after discussion but did not vote on approval. - The St. Nicholas PUD (2026-0437) was tabled mid-meeting then continued to August 4. - Home Occupations Ordinance (2026-0376) was continued with no speakers.