Public Meetings - Jacksonville, Florida

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.

This pre-meeting agenda setting session for the Land Use and Zoning Committee was held on July 21, 2026, at 12:30 PM. The committee reviewed items scheduled for the main meeting at 5:00 PM, establishing recommendations for continuances, approvals, and amendments. No public comments were received, and no formal votes were taken during this session. Discussion Items - Item 14 (2026-425): Ex parte open close amend and move. Conditions added by the planning department (traffic engineering study and visual screening for outside storage) were agreed to by the applicant and accepted by the planning commission. - Item 18 (2026-429): Ex parte open close amend and move. The planning commission did not adopt the planning department's condition to limit the height of a transitional housing building to 35 feet. The bill remains unamended; the committee may choose to adopt the condition at the main meeting. - Item 42 (2026-488): Ex parte open close move. A planning department denial regarding a property with two legally non-conforming homes seeking to add a third home, along with unauthorized accessory structures. The applicant aims to bring the entire site into conformance. - Second Readings: Items 2026-523 through 534 and 544 are scheduled for second reading at the main meeting. - Request to Move Items: Committee member Clark Murray requested that items 17 (2026-428), 18 (2026-429), and 24 (2026-435) be moved up in the agenda order. The request was granted. Key Outcomes - Continuances: Multiple items were continued to future dates: 2026-122 (to 8/4), 2026-123 (to 8/4), 2026-124 (to 11/17/26), 2026-126, 2026-127, 2026-372, 2026-376, 2026-424, 2026-421, 2026-430, 2026-434, 2026-436, and a block of bills from 2026-475 through 485 deferred. - Recommendations for Approval (Open Close Move): Items 2026-422, 2026-423 (companion), 2026-424, 2026-426, 2026-427, 2026-428, 2026-432, 2026-438, 2026-439, 2026-487, and 2026-488. - Recommendations with Amendments (Ex parte Open Close Amend Move): Items 2026-425 (with conditions), 2026-429 (planning department condition not adopted by planning commission), 2026-433 (with planning commission adopted conditions), 2026-435, and 2026-437. - Second Reading Items: 2026-523 through 534 and 544 are scheduled for second reading at the main meeting.

The Jacksonville Finance Committee met on July 21, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 2:15 PM in the Council Chamber. Chair Will Lahnen presided, with members Chris Miller, Terrence Freeman, Mike Gay, Rahman Johnson, and Randy White present (Rory Diamond excused). Council President Nick Howland attended. The committee heard a roll-back rate resolution preview, debated a homelessness commission liaison bill, approved 13 amended items, withdrew one, and read nine second-read bills. Chair Lahnen also outlined budget priorities. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comment cards were submitted. Discussion Items - Roll-Back Rate Resolution (2026-0500): Council Auditor Phillip Peterson explained the resolution would set the maximum millage rate for the upcoming budget. He noted reserves are at historic highs (mid-20% of expenditures, well above the 17% GFOA recommendation) and recommended against padding the rate—a departure from past practice. The resolution will be voted on as an in-and-out emergency at the July 28 Council meeting. - Submerged Land Lease (Paul Harden): Harden briefed the committee on an emergency bill to amend a submerged land lease near the stadium for the first football game. No city cost was identified. - Homelessness Initiatives Commission Liaison (2026-0489): Council Member Peluso, as HIC liaison, moved to amend Chapter 86 to codify a mayor’s liaison to the commission. Debate centered on whether legislation was needed (vs. administrative appointment), equity with other boards, and slow fund disbursement. Council Members Freeman, Miller, Gay, and White opposed; Lahnen and Johnson supported. The bill failed 2-4 after passing Rules and Neighborhoods committees. - Budget Preview (Chair Lahnen): Lahnen shared principles for the FY26-27 budget review: keep non-public safety spending flat, avoid new program starts, use contingent approvals for nonprofit funds pending the November property tax referendum, and aim for a 7-0 committee vote. He noted a 1% overall spending increase, 74 new first responders, and 6 non-public safety job eliminations. Key Outcomes - 2026-0445 (SPAR Cleanup Corps): Amended and approved 6-0. Appropriates $200,000 from Council District 7 CBA contingency to Springfield Preservation and Revitalization Council for personnel, increasing total contract to $496,181 and extending term to 9/30/29. - 2026-0448 & 2026-0449 (SHIP LHAP Amendments): Both amended and approved 6-0. Increases per-unit award caps: for 2021-2024 plan, ownership from $160k to $250k, rental rehab/new construction from $100k to $250k; for 2024-2027 plan, rental development from $1M to $2M. - 2026-0453 (Fund Balance Appropriation): Withdrawn 6-0 at administration’s request; separate legislation will address negative fund balances. - 2026-0489 (HIC Liaison): Failed 2-4 (Lahnen, Johnson aye; Miller, Freeman, Gay, White nay; Diamond excused). - 2026-0490 (HOME Grant): Amended and approved 6-0. Appropriates $3,625,976.76 for low-income housing activities. - 2026-0491 (CDBG Grant): Amended and approved 6-0. Appropriates $8,167,263.28 for community development programs. - 2026-0493 (Deerwood Rotary Park & Fort Family Park): Amended and approved 6-0. Appropriates $1,358,150 ($950k CBA + $408k naming rights) for playground and park improvements. - 2026-0494 (Foreclosure Registry Funds): Amended and approved 6-0. Appropriates $1,338,737.21 for foreclosure intervention, blight removal, and related programs. - 2026-0495 (Timuquan Trail - Segment C): Amended and approved 6-0. Appropriates $1,700,000 federal grant (no city match) for trail construction, extends agreement to 6/30/27. - 2026-0496 (Parks Invasive Species Removal): Approved 6-0. Appropriates $72,300 ($36,150 FDEP grant + $36,150 city match). - 2026-0497 (HOPWA Grant): Amended and approved 6-0. Appropriates $3,269,046.69 for housing assistance to low-income persons with HIV/AIDS. - 2026-0498 (SHIP Grant): Amended and approved 6-0. Appropriates $7,737,038.90 for affordable housing programs. - 2026-0499 (Emergency Solutions Grant): Amended and approved 6-0. Appropriates $610,307.44 for homelessness services, with a direct contract to Changing Homelessness, Inc. - Second Reading Bills (Items 23-31): 2026-0535 through 2026-0552 were read and referred to the full Council; public hearings set for July 28, 2026. These include infrastructure projects, art show funding, FOP Foundation audit forgiveness, CIP corrections, tax collector postage, downtown development (119 Beaver St), Sulzbacher shelter expansion, Zawyer Sports Foundation grant, and Jacksonville Riverfront Alliance funding.

The Jacksonville City Council Rules Committee convened on Monday, July 20, 2026, at 9:58 AM in Council Chamber, City Hall, and adjourned at 11:20 AM. Chair Mike Gay presided. The committee approved several ordinances, resolutions, and appointments, deferred numerous items, and heard a presentation on an upcoming emergency bill. Opening Remarks & Housekeeping - Council President Howland welcomed the committee and explained the new 9:00 AM meeting time, selected to accommodate appointees appearing for confirmation. - Councilmember Boylan reminded colleagues of the new attendance process under Ord. 2026-137-E, requiring council members to request excused absences from the committee chair or council president. He also noted that members must obtain permission from the chair before leaving the dais. Presentation - Paul Harden (1431 River Place) presented on Ordinance 2026-0576, an emergency bill to be introduced on July 28. The bill addresses a submerged land lease by the marina near the stadium, widening the lease to allow charging for boat slips and gasoline sales. The city's financial obligation does not increase. Chair Gay noted the bill was filed but not on the agenda. Dr. Salem asked whether the auditors had reviewed the legislation; Harden said he would follow up. Consent Calendar (Deferred Items) - 2024-0627 (Mayor's Transfer Authority limit) – Deferred at request of CM Diamond. - 2024-0966 (Settlement of fines with Live Oak Ancient City Living, LLC) – Deferred at request of CM Carrico. - 2025-0775 (Prohibit certain expenditures to Mayor & Council Members) – Deferred at request of CM Carlucci. - 2026-0192 (Confirm Randy Wyse to JEA Board) – Deferred at request of CP Howland. - 2026-0203 (Reappoint Joseph Disalvo to JEA) – Deferred at request of CP Howland. - 2026-0227 (Prohibit city funds for abortions) – Deferred at request of CM Diamond. - 2026-0318 (Add $10 filing fee for code violations) – Deferred at request of CM Johnson. - 2026-0320 (Police & Fire Pension Board governance updates) – Deferred at request of CM White. - 2026-0376 (Home occupation requirements modifications) – Deferred at request of CM Peluso. Discussion Items & Votes Item 2026-0319 – Warren A. Jones Baseball Complex Naming - Action: Amendment offered to attach Historic Preservation Section report and waive timeline requirements; approved unanimously. Bill as amended approved 7-0. - Discussion: Councilmember Freeman asked to be added as co-sponsor. CM Boylan requested a copy of the historic preservation report. Councilmember Carlucci confirmed Warren Jones was consulted and agreed to the naming of just the baseball complex. Item 2026-0445 – Additional Funding to SPAR for Springfield Cleanup Corps - Action: Amendment corrected account information and budget narrative; approved unanimously. Bill as amended approved 7-0. - Discussion: CM Peluso explained the funds are from District 7 CBA contingency. CM Boylan asked about waiving Cultural Service Grant eligibility; Michael Haskins (SPAR) confirmed they have been a CSG recipient for about 10 years and the funding is for a separate program. Item 2026-0453 – Appropriation to Cure Negative Cash Balances & Fund Economic Incentives - Action: Withdrawn 7-0 at administration’s request. - Discussion: CM Lahnen requested more information on why the bill was withdrawn. Garrett Dennis (Mayor’s Office) said he would provide details to the committee. Item 2026-0489 – Amend Homelessness Initiatives Commission (HIC) to Add Mayoral Liaison - Action: Amendment corrected bill title and liaison language; approved unanimously. Bill as amended approved 5-1-1 (Salem nay, Pittman abstain). - Discussion: CM Peluso explained the bill creates a mayoral liaison to speed up the process of getting HIC-recommended funds out. CM Freeman expressed concern that a high-level administration liaison could unduly influence volunteer board members and noted JCEB faced similar delays. CM Salem supported the liaison but cautioned about overreach. Garrett Dennis noted HIC was created to appropriate dollars, unlike JCEB which is an auditing body for JSAB. CM Pittman abstained due to potential conflict with Clara White Mission. Item 2026-0492 – Noxious Weeds & Invasive Plant Species Ordinance - Action: Amendment reordered definitions and corrected scrivener’s error; approved unanimously. Bill as amended approved 7-0. - Discussion: CM Boylan explained the bill extends state noxious weed regulations from new development to existing private properties, responding to constituent concerns. He clarified it does not affect public works operations. Item 2026-0494 – Foreclosure Registry Funds Appropriation - Action: Amendment corrected appropriation to $1,338,737.21; approved unanimously. Bill as amended approved 7-0. - Discussion: Travis Jeffrey (Housing and Community Development) explained the funds support four positions for foreclosure registry administration, foreclosure intervention ($300,000), neighborhood matching grants ($286,191.43), blight removal ($179,497.95 for the JAR program), and batch foreclosure ($38,000). CM Salem and CM Boylan questioned the high administrative costs; staff clarified the positions also administer other programs. CM Pittman suggested better coordination with blight removal efforts under Councilmember Ferraro. CM Lahnen recommended communication between departments to avoid duplicating funding. Item 2026-0495 – Timuquan Trail Segment C Grant - Action: Amendment corrected project location to Council District 2; approved unanimously. Bill as amended approved 7-0. - Appropriation: $1,700,000 in federal DOT grant funds via FDOT; no city match required. Item 2026-0497 – HOPWA Continuation Grant for HIV/AIDS Housing - Action: Amendment attached HUD award schedule and corrected scrivener’s errors; approved unanimously. Bill as amended approved 6-0-1 (Pittman abstained due to potential conflict with Clara White Mission). - Appropriation: $3,269,046.69 ($3,260,738 from HUD, $8,308.69 reprogrammed) for housing assistance and supportive services to low-income persons with HIV/AIDS in Duval County. Item 2026-0499 – Emergency Solutions Grant for Homelessness - Action: Amendment attached HUD award schedule and corrected fiscal year to 2026/2027; approved unanimously. Bill as amended approved 6-0-1 (Pittman abstained). - Appropriation: $610,307.44 ($610,007 from HUD, $300.44 reprogrammed) for services addressing homelessness; includes direct contract with Changing Homelessness, Inc. Appointments & Confirmations - 2026-0515 – Michelle Begley as Chief of Accounting Division: Approved 7-0. Begley spoke of her 36 years in government accounting and auditing. CM Freeman commended her questionnaire. CM Pittman asked about potential improvements; Begley cited ERP system challenges and process efficiencies. - 2026-0516 – Corey Ford to Construction Trades Qualifying Board: Withdrawn 7-0 at administration’s request. - 2026-0517 – Julio Alayo to Construction Trades Qualifying Board: Deferred at request of administration. Second Reading Items (Read 2nd & Rereferred) - 2026-0535 (Trout River Blvd intersection & sidewalk improvements – $390,000) - 2026-0539 (Tax Collector postage costs – $115,000) - 2026-0540 (Honorary street designation for Dr. Devegowda Gopal & renaming “Gopal Way”) - 2026-0542 (Sulzbacher Center homeless shelter capacity – $413,900) - 2026-0543 (Zawyer Sports Foundation community impact initiative – $150,000) - 2026-0545 through 2026-0548 (Appointments to Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville: Toni Smailagic, Alicia Somers, Arlene Lloyd, Joshua Taylor) Resolutions - 2026-0551 – Commemorating 158th Anniversary of Historic Mount Olive AME Church: Approved 7-0. Key Outcomes - Vote Tallies: All votes were 7-0 except 2026-0489 (5-1-1), 2026-0497 and 2026-0499 (each 6-0-1). All amendments passed unanimously. - Deferrals: 11 items deferred at sponsors’ requests. - Withdrawals: Two items withdrawn (2026-0453 and 2026-0516). - Directives: Administration to provide details on withdrawal of 2026-0453 to the full committee. Staff instructed to coordinate foreclosure-registry blight funds with Neighborhoods Department blight efforts. CM Boylan requested copy of historic preservation report for Item 2026-0319. - Next Meeting: The next regular Rules Committee meeting is scheduled for Monday, August 3, 2026.

This special meeting of the Jacksonville City Council, convened on July 20, 2026, at 9:00 a.m., featured the presentation of the proposed fiscal year 2026-2027 budget by Mayor Donna Deegan. The meeting included an invocation, roll call, opening remarks by Council President Nick Howland, the mayor's budget address, and subsequent questions and comments from council members. The proposed budget totals approximately $2 billion, a 1% increase over the prior year, attributed to commitments to first responders. No public testimony was received from citizens. Invocation and Opening Remarks - Councilmember Amero led the invocation, reflecting on the city's history and the challenges ahead. - Council President Howland emphasized the council's role in the budget process, noting the separation of powers and the legislative branch's authority over appropriations. He called for cooperation and respect between branches. Mayor's Budget Address Mayor Deegan presented a proposed $2 billion budget, emphasizing fiscal discipline, transparency, and a return on investment for taxpayers. Key points include: - Fiscal Responsibility: The budget rises only 1% over the previous year, does not draw from reserves, and does not increase non-public-safety employees. Credit ratings improved (Fitch upgraded to AA+; S&P and KBRA reaffirmed AA). - Infrastructure: $36 million for road resurfacing, $12 million for sidewalks, $25 million for septic tank phase-out (more than doubling previous commitment), and $25 million for stormwater drainage projects (with a 6:1 return on investment in avoided flood losses). - Public Safety: $1,073 million commitment for JSO and JFRD, including a third year of salary increases and restored defined benefit pension. The budget notes reduced homicides and gang activity, and a top ISO rating saving $300 million annually in property insurance. - Affordable Housing: $6.3 million total investment, including an affordable housing trust fund now over $5.5 million, and support for the emergency rental and eviction protection program. - Health and Social Services: Health Link Jacksonville saved $9.3 million in ER costs on a $2 million program (5:1 ROI). Elder care food security delivered 271,000 meals, reducing the waiting list by 66%. 988 Crisis Call Center has a 98.7% de-escalation rate. - Homelessness: Full funding for JFRD's Path Outreach Team, shelter bed expansion, mental health offender program, and urban rest stop. The mayor stated that doing nothing is more expensive than funding what works. - Economic Development: $4 million for the Out East community benefits agreement, plus tools for attracting employers and supporting small businesses. - Education and Libraries: Continued support for River City Readers program and public libraries; noted Duval County Public Schools earned an A rating for the second consecutive year. - Arts and Culture: Funding for public service grants and the Cultural Council maintained at previous year levels, with a 20:1 ROI for arts and culture. - General Principle: The mayor argued that many so-called discretionary programs are actually upstream core investments, and deferred maintenance is hidden debt. Council Comments and Questions - Councilman Carlucci (19th or 20th budget address) praised the mayor's optimism and completeness, drawing a personal connection to former Mayor Tommy Hazouri (the mayor's cousin). He expressed gratitude for her service. - Councilwoman Pittman thanked the mayor for addressing broken promises, particularly on septic tank phase-out in the north side, and for infrastructure investments. She expressed support for working together. - Councilman Salem asked about public posting of the budget. The mayor's staff confirmed it would be filed immediately and posted to the gateway and website. - Councilman Amero commended the mayor for addressing deferred maintenance, calling it cowardice, and emphasized the importance of fulfilling the public safety commitment. - Councilman Carlucci (second time) noted that by ordinance, the budget must be delivered to every public library in Jacksonville that week. - Councilman Peluso expressed excitement about road resurfacing and drainage dollars, and asked about future town halls. The mayor confirmed town halls would start August 5th and run through early September. Key Outcomes - The proposed budget was formally presented and is now turned over to the council auditors and the council finance committee for review. - No votes were taken during this meeting. - The budget will be posted publicly and available in libraries. - Town halls to discuss the budget with the public will begin August 5, 2026.

Date: Monday, July 20, 2026 Time: 1:00 PM – 2:35 PM Location: Council Chamber, 1st Floor, City Hall, 117 W. Duval Street, Jacksonville, FL This was the first meeting of the new Council Year. The committee convened to hear a presentation on hurricane preparedness, discuss numerous legislative items, and take votes on amendments and final approval for a variety of ordinances and resolutions. Presentations - Hurricane Preparedness Presentation: Chief Andre Ayoub, JFRD Emergency Preparedness Division, presented an overview of how the city prepares for hurricane season. He described the Emergency Operations Center (EOC), activation levels, information flow, evacuation zones (total 431,193 residents), and special medical needs registrants (total 1,015). He detailed the public assistance process, noting that as of FY 2025, Duval County's threshold for FEMA reimbursement is $4.7 million. FEMA covers 75% of eligible costs, with the state and city each covering 12.5%. He presented a summary of disaster recovery costs from Hurricane Matthew (2016) through Hurricane Milton (2024), showing $184 million spent and $121 million recovered, leaving $63 million outstanding. - Councilmember Boylan asked if community organizations are active in the recovery process; Chief Ayoub confirmed they are and that new organizations can reach out to the liaison officer. Councilmember Boylan mentioned the Northeast Florida Long Term Recovery Organization formed after Hurricane Irma. Vice Chair Clark-Murray asked about FEMA reimbursement rates and the average recovery time. Councilmember Salem expressed surprise that $63 million is still outstanding, given the time since the last major storm, and asked for updated fund status from the Council Auditor's Office. Councilmember Carlucci expressed frustration with the state and FEMA for slow reimbursement, and asked how much JEA is owed. - Councilmember Boylan provided an overview of new council attendance rules effective July 1, 2026, requiring written excusal requests to the committee chair, a limit of one excused absence per meeting (two for military or medical reasons), a quorum of five members, and removal from a committee after three unexcused absences. Chair Miller clarified that excusal requests should be sent by email no later than the day before the meeting, with confirmation of receipt. Consent Calendar - None. All items were addressed individually. Public Comments & Testimony - Mr. Chandler Peel (7101 Wilson Blvd, apt 2108) – expressed concerns about apartment safety and security at Eden's Edge Apartments, including speeding vehicles, unauthorized pool access, nighttime disturbances, suspected drug activity, and damaged entrance gates. He requested increased JSO presence, 24/7 gate operation, key access to the pool, more surveillance cameras, and regular town hall meetings with management. - Ms. Cheryl Robinson (110 W 32nd St) – spoke about her own eviction matter, alleging her signature was forged on a lease by attorneys, and that she was locked out despite having proof of rent payments. She stated she filed charges and was subsequently told she would not be let back in. Council President Howland offered to meet with her after the meeting. - Ms. Kim Fontecchio (2729 Delonega Drive) – introduced herself as owner/operator of Fontecchio's Community Garden, a city-approved half-acre botanical sanctuary in District 2. She stated she built the garden to replace a history of domestic violence on the land with a safe space. She reported facing organized hostility and racial discrimination from a handful of neighbors, and asked for fair and neutral inspections. - Mr. Paul Harden (1431 River Place Blvd) – appeared on behalf of the Jaguars to discuss a pending marina construction project near the Four Seasons, on a submerged land lease with the State of Florida. He stated they were proposing to extend the lease to add space and amenities, and requested Council approval as an emergency upon introduction to have it available before the first football game. Discussion Items - Item 5 – Warren A. Jones Baseball Complex (2026-0319): Ordinance to name the city-owned baseball complex at Hammond Park after Warren A. Jones. The amendment attached the Historic Preservation Section report and waived certain timeline requirements. Councilmember Carrico asked to be added as co-sponsor. Vice Chair Clark-Murray noted that Councilmember Freeman had a concern but that Councilmember Carlucci hosted a publicly noticed meeting. Councilmember Carlucci explained that Mr. Jones declined having the entire park named after him, and agreed to the baseball complex. The amendment was approved unanimously. The bill as amended was approved 7-0. - Item 8 – Springfield Cleanup Corps Program Funding (2026-0445): Appropriates $200,000 from Council District 7 CBA contingency to SPAR for the Springfield Cleanup Corps Program. The amendment corrected account information and budget narrative. Approved unanimously. - Item 9 – SHIP Plan Amendment for FY 21-24 (2026-0448): Increases max award per unit for affordable housing: New Construction for Ownership from $160,000 to $250,000, and Rehabilitation/New Construction for Rental from $100,000 to $250,000. Mr. Travis Jeffrey (Housing and Community Development) explained that construction costs exceed the previous $160,000 limit. The amendment was approved unanimously. Councilmember Peluso asked to be added as co-sponsor. Approved 7-0. - Item 10 – SHIP Plan Amendment for FY 24-27 (2026-0449): Increases max award for Rental Development from $1 million to $2 million. Amendment approved unanimously. Councilmember Peluso added as co-sponsor. Approved 7-0. - Item 11 – Homelessness Initiatives Commission (2026-0489): Amends Chapter 86 to clarify processes and add the Mayor's liaison. Councilmember Salem expressed concern about setting a precedent and voted against it. Councilmember Boylan stated the liaison would report on administration progress. Councilmember Peluso explained the commission was created by Council without executive branch connection, making a liaison necessary for fund disbursement. Mr. Bill Delaney (Mayor's Office) stated that institutionalizing the role is beneficial given ongoing homelessness needs. The amendment passed unanimously. Final vote was 4-3 (Clark-Murray, Boylan, Carlucci, Peluso in favor; Miller, Carrico, Salem against). - Item 12 – HOME Investment Partnership Grant (2026-0490): Appropriates $3,625,976.76 for housing assistance. Amendment corrected account codes. Approved 7-0. - Item 13 – CDBG Grant (2026-0491): Appropriates $8,167,263.28 for community development. Councilmember Carrico abstained citing potential conflict of interest (Boys & Girls Club applies for CDBG funding). Approved 6-0-1. - Item 14 – Noxious Weeds and Invasive Plant Species (2026-0492): Amends property maintenance code to add invasive species as nuisance vegetation. Amendment corrected definitions. Approved 7-0. - Item 15 – Deerwood Rotary Park and Fort Family Park (2026-0493): Appropriates $1,358,150 for playground and park improvements. Councilmembers Carrico and Carlucci added as co-sponsors. Approved 7-0. - Item 16 – Foreclosure Registry Funds (2026-0494): Appropriates $1,338,737.21 for foreclosure-related programs and blight removal. Amendment corrected amounts. Approved 7-0. - Item 17 – Timuquan Trail – Segment C (2026-0495): Appropriates $1,700,000 in grant funding for trail construction. Amendment corrected project location to Council District 2. Approved 7-0. - Item 18 – Parks Invasive Species Removal (2026-0496): Appropriates $72,300 for invasive species removal. Approved 7-0. - Item 19 – Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (2026-0497): Appropriates $3,269,046.69 for housing assistance. Chair Miller asked for the number of people assisted; Mr. Jeffrey stated he would provide that information. Approved 7-0. - Item 20 – SHIP Continuation Grant (2026-0498): Appropriates $7,737,038.90 for affordable housing programs. Councilmember Salem asked about down payment assistance repayment; Mr. Jeffrey explained deferred payment with 5-, 10-, or 15-year liens. Approved 7-0. - Item 21 – Emergency Solutions Grant (2026-0499): Appropriates $610,307.44 for homelessness services. Councilmember Salem asked about organization selection; Mr. Jeffrey described a universal application process with rating/ranking by two internal staff and one consultant. Vice Chair Clark-Murray asked about cash match responsibility; Mr. Jeffrey confirmed subrecipients are responsible. Chair Miller questioned whether Changing Homelessness is paid for data management that it is already paid to do; Mr. Jeffrey said he believed they receive additional CoC funding but did not know the amount. Approved 7-0. - Items 22-31 (Second Readings): The following items were read a second time and rereferred to the Finance Committee: 2026-0535 (Trout River intersection/sidewalk projects), 2026-0536 (National Arts Program employee art show), 2026-0537 (FOP Foundation audit forgiveness), 2026-0538 (CIP budget corrections), 2026-0539 (Tax Collector postage costs), 2026-0540 (Gopal Way street naming), 2026-0541 (Downtown mixed-use development with Publix), 2026-0542 (Sulzbacher shelter capacity funding), 2026-0543 (Zawyer Sports Foundation funding), and 2026-0552 (Jacksonville Riverfront Alliance funding and downtown park maintenance). Key Outcomes - Approved: Items 5, 8, 9, 10, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, and 21 – all with amendments where applicable and unanimous or near-unanimous votes. - Approved with Split Vote: Item 11 (Homelessness Initiatives Commission) – approved 4-3. - Rereferred to Finance Committee: Items 22 through 31 (second readings) were read a second time and referred to the Finance Committee for further consideration. - Next Meeting: The regular meeting is scheduled for Monday, August 3, 2026.

Note: The meeting transcript identifies the date as July 16, 2026, but the provided metadata states July 17, 2026. This summary follows the metadata date, but readers should be aware of the discrepancy. The Jacksonville Aviation Authority (JAA) Board of Directors met to consider Resolution 2026-02S, which authorized filing a declaratory judgment action (lawsuit) against the City of Jacksonville. The dispute centers on the city council’s amendment of JAA’s fiscal year 2026 budget, the legality of those amendments under federal aviation law, and the broader question of JAA’s independence as an authority. After public testimony and board discussion, the resolution passed, but the board also approved a motion to delay filing for 30 days while pursuing mediation with the city. Public Comments & Testimony - Council President Nick Howland (speaking as a member of the public) argued that the allegations in the draft complaint are false. He provided QR codes to the August 2025 budget hearing, stating that the council’s amendments did not create a new budget line item and explicitly conditioned spending on FAA approval. He urged the board to withdraw the lawsuit and work cooperatively. - Jason Teal, former City of Jacksonville General Counsel, warned that the JAA’s hiring of outside counsel without approval from the current General Counsel, Michael Facker, may violate the city charter. He stated that this could expose board members to personal liability, potential criminal liability, and a finding of malfeasance. He also argued that the complaint fails to exhaust administrative remedies and contains factual inaccuracies. Discussion Items - Board Member (Mr. Gullifer) made a detailed presentation arguing that the JAA is an independent special district created by state law, not a city department. He cited the history of consolidation, JA’s lack of city funding, and federal prohibitions on revenue diversion as reasons the lawsuit is necessary to resolve the dispute. - Board Member (Mr. Offmeyer) , chair of the Jacksonville Aerospace Development Committee, provided facts: Cecil Airport has the highest average employee salary of any Florida airport; JAA receives no city funding; the board has a responsibility to comply with FAA regulations under the Supremacy Clause. He supported the lawsuit as a means to obtain legal clarity. - Board Member (Mr. Barnett) expressed concern about conflicts of interest if the city’s General Counsel represents both the city and the JAA, and argued that the board needs a clear legal ruling on their respective roles. - Board Member (Mr. Bill) voiced support for JAA staff and the airport’s success, calling the lawsuit “silly” and urging continued cooperation. - General Counsel Michael Facker defended his office’s role, stating that he has never refused to provide a written opinion and offered to work with the JAA over 30 days to resolve questions. He warned that approving the resolution could expose board members to personal liability, but clarified that was not a threat, only a legal advisory. He disputed several factual assertions in the resolution, including that he authorized outside counsel to review budget amendments. - Board Member (Mr. Blackwood) questioned the General Counsel about the binding nature of his opinions and the lack of a remedy for dissenting parties, referencing a previous court case (School Board vs. City) that allowed outside counsel. Key Outcomes - Resolution 2026-02S (authorizing filing a declaratory judgment lawsuit against the City of Jacksonville) passed on a voice vote. The exact tally was not recorded in the transcript, but the chair declared the motion carried. - Motion for 30-day mediation: Immediately after the vote, a board member moved to delay filing the lawsuit for 30 days to engage in mediation with the city, appoint Board Member Michelle Barnett to oversee the process, and require that any filing be approved by the full board. This motion passed on a recorded voice vote (all in favor, none opposed). The 30-day period starts July 17, 2026. - The board agreed to work with the city’s General Counsel during the mediation period to seek clarity on legal questions. Council President Howland and General Counsel Facker both expressed willingness to participate. - No lawsuit has been filed as of the meeting adjournment. The board will reconvene or communicate as needed within the 30-day window.

The Election Advisory Panel met on July 8, 2026, to discuss vote-by-mail renewal rates, an update from the Supervisor of Elections Office, polling place changes, and the eligibility of elected officials to serve on the panel. No formal votes were taken. Public Comments & Testimony - April Hall Lloyd (address on file) urged the Duval County Supervisor of Elections to mail physical vote-by-mail renewal notices to previously enrolled voters, especially seniors. She stated that of the 88,579 Duval County voters who signed up for vote-by-mail in 2024, only 22,000 have submitted a new request for the 2027 municipal elections. She noted that Sarasota County maintained its vote-by-mail levels by sending physical notices, and criticized reliance on digital outreach due to skepticism among seniors. Discussion Items - Vote-by-Mail Renewal Outreach: Justin Jicalone, Chief Deputy Supervisor of Elections, reported that as of that morning, there were 24,094 total vote-by-mail requests (22,359 domestic, 1,735 uniformed/overseas). He stated that outreach via phone calls and emails had doubled the renewal rate among 2024 voters, but no large-scale mailing was planned. When asked about demographic data for seniors, he did not have that number available. - Voter Registration Statistics: Jicalone reported 642,956 active voters in Duval County: 235,769 Republicans, 241,122 Democrats, 142,309 non-party affiliates, and 23,756 other parties. - State Legislation: House Bill 991 (affecting election day procedures, effective January 1, 2027) and House Bill 461 (allowing student poll workers to earn community service hours) were discussed. HB 461 is on the governor’s desk; the SOE is ready to implement once signed. - Primary Election Preparations: Jicalone outlined changes: precinct boundaries will be reduced from 160 to 159; two temporary polling place changes due to construction; early voting from August 7 to August 16, 2026, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 24 sites; sample ballot mailing begins July 29; new “I Voted” stickers for vote-by-mail and first-time voters. - Poll Worker Training: Panel members commented positively on the new online training, noting its interactive design and accuracy, though one member reported a minor technical glitch. - Old Business – Eligibility of Elected Officials on the Panel: Staff advised that city council members and school board members cannot serve on the Election Advisory Panel because they hold public office. The panel noted that a current member who is running for city council would be notified if elected. Key Outcomes - No formal decisions or votes were taken. The panel received updates and discussed operational matters. The next meeting was not scheduled but public comments were noted.