Public Meetings - Jacksonville, Florida

The Land Use & Zoning Committee convened on October 6, 2026, at 4:30 PM in the Council Chamber, City Hall, Jacksonville, FL. Chair Joe Carlucci presided. The agenda meeting processed numerous land use and zoning items, including deferrals, amendments, and moves. Discussion Items - Items 1–7 Deferred: Items 2026-124 and items 2-7 were deferred. For items 6 and 7, the committee discussed a request to amend and re-refer due to proposed amendments from applicant Paul Harden (received via email). The committee did not act on the re-referral as the applicant was absent; the items remain deferred. - Item 8 (2026-532) – Concrete Batch Plant: The committee received communication from Kristen Reed that the concrete batch plant is no longer present. The item was moved (ex parte open close amend and move). - Item 10 (2026-557): Ex parte open close amend and move with conditions adopted from planning commission. - Item 12: Open close amended move with a revised exhibit two for correct land use map. - Item 21 (2026-656): Ex parte open close amend and move with two conditions; condition two had a slight language alteration (discussed later). - Item 34 (2026-697) – Waiver of Road Frontage: Ex parte open close move. Marco's card was expected. - Second Reading Items: Items 2026-741, 742, 743, 744, 745, 746, 747, 779 were on second reading and processed without discussion. - Many other items (13-20, 22-25, 35-37) were moved or continued as listed. Key Outcomes - Deferrals: Items 1-7, 9, and 26-33 were deferred. Items 26-33 set for public hearing next cycle on October 20, 2026. - Motions: Most remaining items were moved (open close, amend and move, etc.) with no recorded opposition. - No public testimony was taken during the agenda meeting. Note: The meeting was brief; Chair Carlucci commented "Told y'all this would be boring."

The Jacksonville City Council Finance Committee met on October 6, 2026, at 1:00 PM under Chair Will Lahnen. The meeting featured the presentation of the FY 24/25 audit, an emergency bill for JTA, extensive debate on the Gateway Jax development incentives, and the approval of numerous appropriations and ordinances. The meeting adjourned at 2:20 PM. Public Comments & Testimony - Carnell Oliver spoke in opposition to the Gateway Jax project, arguing it disregards the civil rights and economic protections of the historic American freedmen community. - Eric Adler (Owner of The Raven, Historic Springfield) spoke in support of the Gateway Jax/Publix development. He stated that the prospect of the development directly influenced his decision to open a restaurant downtown and urged the committee to consider the positive knock-on effects for small businesses. - Jim Emery submitted a comment card regarding the Volunteer Life Saving Corps bill. Discussion Items - Audit Presentation (FY 24/25): Amy Miller and Michelle Hamm from Carr, Riggs & Ingram presented the external audit results. They reported an unmodified opinion on the City's financial statements and federal/state awards. One material weakness (Finding 2025-001) was identified related to certain adjusting entries, for which management has already implemented a corrective plan. The two findings from the prior year were resolved and not repeated. - JTA Emergency Bill (2026-0780): Council Member Diamond expressed that while the situation at JTA was difficult, approving the emergency use of $30M in LOGT funds was the only viable option to prevent service cuts. Council Member Gay questioned JTA about trash collection at bus stops. Council Member Johnson inquired about the total financial need and service stability. - Gateway Jax / Publix Development Incentive (2026-0541): Council Member Diamond moved to defer the item for two cycles to await the results of the statewide Amendment 3 referendum. Council President Howland strongly supported the deferral, citing the potential $200M+ revenue shortfall if Amendment 3 passes. DIA Director Colin Tarbert clarified the incentive package supports the building and developer, not a direct subsidy to Publix. Council Auditor Phillip Peterson detailed the future fiscal risks. The applicant, Cindy Trimmer, and developer, Brian Moll, expressed a preference for moving forward but agreed to the November timeline. Council Member Johnson opposed the deferral. - Council Rules Quorum Change (2026-0709): Bill sponsor Mike Gay argued the change to a simple majority quorum is necessary to keep city business moving. Council Member Boylan spoke in opposition, stating it weakens accountability. Council Member Johnson also opposed, arguing the chairs should retain discretion. Key Outcomes - Item 29 (2026-0780) – JTA Gas Tax Emergency: Approved unanimously (8-0). Allows JTA to use up to $30M in LOGT funds for debt service and operational expenses related to that debt, subject to repayment by 2037. - Item 12 (2026-0701) – JSO/JFRD Appropriation: Amended and approved (8-0). Total funding increased to $31.45 million for JSO headquarters improvements, JSO warehouse consolidation, and a JFRD CO2 removal system. - Item 13 (2026-0704) – JEA Collective Bargaining: Approved (8-0). Ratified a 3-year, $9.8 million collective bargaining agreement with LiUNA Local 630, including 3.5% annual wage increases. - Item 6 (2026-0541) – Gateway Jax / Publix Development: Deferred for two cycles (7-1; Johnson opposed). The item is scheduled for the November 4, 2026 Finance Committee meeting. - Item 10 (2026-0698) – State of the River Report: Amended and approved (7-0). Appropriated $111,233 from the Environmental Protection Fund. - Item 11 (2026-0700) – Gateway Completion Grants Funding: Approved (6-1; Diamond opposed). Appropriated $9.2 million for completion grants from various contingency accounts. - Item 14 (2026-0705) – Volunteer Life Saving Corps Truck: Approved (7-0). Donated a surplus city truck for ocean rescue services. - Item 15 (2026-0706) – DEDF Appropriation: Amended and approved (6-1; Diamond opposed). Appropriated $1.13 million in investment pool earnings. - Item 16 (2026-0707) – Emergency Solutions Grant: Amended and approved (7-0). Appropriated $181,333.85 for the Rapid Unsheltered Survivor Housing Program. - Item 17 (2026-0709) – Council Rules Quorum: Approved (6-1; Boylan opposed). Changed the committee quorum requirement to a simple majority. - Item 18 (2026-0720) – Pablo Creek Conservation Area: Approved (7-0). Authorized a management agreement with the St. Johns River Water Management District. - Item 19 (2026-0740) – Lofts at Southbank Extension: Amended and approved (6-1; Diamond opposed). Extended construction deadlines by one year. - Item 26 (2026-0757) – Project Apollo: Amended and approved (6-1; Diamond opposed). Authorized a 10-year REV Grant for a headquarters/manufacturing facility, with Auditor-recommended job creation performance benchmarks. - Items 20-25, 27-28: These items were read for the second time and rerereferred or placed on file without a final vote by the Finance Committee.

The Jacksonville City Council Rules Committee convened on Monday, October 5, 2026, at 9:00 AM in the Council Chamber. The meeting, chaired by Mike Gay, lasted until 11:24 AM. Key actions included approving an emergency ordinance to allow JTA to borrow up to $30 million from Local Option Gas Tax funds, confirming multiple board appointments, and amending the quorum requirement for standing committees. Several items were deferred, including a contested appointment to the Construction Trades Qualifying Board. Consent Calendar - 2026-0662 – Establishment of the Deep Creek Community Development District (CDD) (2,091.18 acres, 2,634 residential units) approved 7-0. - 2026-0704 – Approval of the collective bargaining agreement between JEA and LiUNA Local 630 (3-year term, 10/1/25–9/30/28; total cost $9.8 million; 3.5% wage increases each year) approved 7-0. - 2026-0705 – Surplus 2015 Chevrolet Silverado truck (value $10,725±) donated to Volunteer Life Saving Corps, Inc. approved 7-0. - 2026-0698 – Appropriation of $111,233 from the Environmental Protection Fund for the 19th State of the River Report (amended to FY2026/2027 and removed carryover language) amended and approved 7-0. - 2026-0702 – Honorary street designation for “The Sisters of St. Joseph of St. Augustine” on State Street (waived code requirements for individual honoree) amended and approved 7-0. - 2026-0725 – Appointment of Leroy C. Kelly to the TRUE Commission approved 8-0. - 2026-0726 – Appointment of Danette J. Hernandez to the Council on Elder Affairs approved 8-0. - 2026-0729 – Appointment of Liz McDonald to the Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville approved 7-0. - 2026-0730 – Appointment of Dr. Christopher Destephano to the Opioid & Substance Use Disorder Grants Committee approved 7-0. - 2026-0731 – Appointment of Yildirim “Alex” Sivar to the Jacksonville Housing Authority approved 7-0. - 2026-0732 – Appointment of Sean Turker to the Public Service Grant Council approved 7-0. - 2026-0727 – Reappointment of Micah Heavener to the DIA Board (attended 90% of meetings) approved 7-0. - 2026-0728 – Reappointment of Jill Caffey to the DIA Board (attended 77% of meetings) approved 7-0. - 2026-0766 – Resolution honoring Destiny Preparatory Academy on its 5th Anniversary approved 7-0. - 2026-0767 – Resolution honoring Leadership Jax on its 50th Anniversary approved 7-0. - 2026-0769 – Resolution declaring October 2026 as Scouting America Page Month in Jacksonville approved 7-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Terry Caldwell (3628 Hermitage Road East) testified about an unresolved HVAC issue with Julio Alayo’s company, disputing claims made about the job and criticizing the nominee’s conduct. - Pastor Timothy Johnson Sr. (613 West Ashley) urged the council to extend the Emerald Trail into Brooklyn and Mixon Town, noting blight and lack of attention from District 7 representatives. - Carnell Oliver (address on file) opposed the appointment of Allison Galloway-Gonzalez to the Cultural Council, arguing that boards should prioritize appointees under the 1866 Civil Rights Act (freedmen) over those under the 1964 Act. - John J. Nooney (8356 Bascom Road) commented on multiple agenda items, including JTA finances, trust funds, and board appointments, and requested a yard sign from the Attorney General. - Daniel Kurzi (address on file) spoke in support of the JEA/LiUNA collective bargaining agreement on behalf of union members, asking the committee to approve it. Discussion Items - JTA Financial Update Presentation – Randall Barnes (JTA CFO) presented a detailed overview of JTA’s fiscal year 2026 shortfall ($39 million projected), citing optimistic revenue projections, increased costs for Connexion Plus, NAVI, and Skyway, and insufficient cost reductions. The FY2027 budget ($139.2 million) relies on a reduction of 200 employees, service pauses (NAVI, Skyway), modified Saturday bus schedules, a fare increase from $1.75 to $2.00 (January 2027), and improved financial controls. The presentation included reporting errors (gross vs. net LOGT reporting) and depletion of reserves. - Ordinance 2026-0780 (JTA Emergency) – Council President Howland (visiting) explained the emergency bill, which authorizes JTA to borrow up to $30 million from unexpended Local Option Gas Tax (LOGT) funds to pay down its line of credit and for eligible expenditures. The loan is interest-free and must be repaid from non-LOGT funds by September 30, 2037. The emergency justification cited delay costs and the need to act within the authorization term. After discussion, the committee voted 7-0 to approve the emergency, then amended (filling blanks, clarifying “non-LOGT II funds”, removing sunset language) and approved the bill as amended 7-0. - Appointment of Julio Alayo (Item 2026-0517) – Alayo, nominated to the Construction Trades Qualifying Board, faced extended questioning about a customer complaint regarding an air conditioning repair. Despite Alayo’s assurances of ongoing work, Councilmember Salem moved to defer indefinitely until the issue is fully resolved. The committee voted unanimously to defer the appointment. Councilmember Pittman expressed concern about setting a precedent that discourages volunteer service over one dissatisfied customer. - Council Rule Change (2026-0709) – Chair Gay’s proposal to amend Council Rule 2.210, changing the quorum for standing committees from five members (or four with two excused absences) to a majority of members, passed 5-2. Councilmembers Boylan and Clark-Murray voted no, arguing it reduces accountability and allows members to avoid difficult votes. - Administrative Services Reorganization (2026-0722) – The bill to rename the Office of Administrative Services as a department and adjust qualifications for the director (adding “in lieu of” degree language) was debated. Councilmember Salem opposed dropping the bachelor’s degree requirement for department heads. The committee deferred the item to allow a noticed meeting for further discussion. Key Outcomes - Approved (7-0): Emergency Ordinance 2026-0780 amending JTA’s use of LOGT funds (up to $30 million loan) as amended. - Approved (7-0): Quorum rule change (2026-0709) – effective immediately (5-2 vote). - Approved (7-0): Establishment of Deep Creek CDD, State of the River funding (amended), honorary street designation (amended), JEA labor agreement, surplus vehicle donation, several reappointments and appointments (see Consent Calendar). - Deferred: Julio Alayo appointment (2026-0517) indefinitely; Administrative Services reorganization (2026-0722) pending a noticed meeting. - Deferred (at request of sponsors): Items 2024-0966, 2026-0192, 2026-0203, 2026-0227, 2026-0320, 2026-0672, 2026-0677, 2026-0687, and 2026-0733. - Second reading items (2026-0752, 2026-0756, 2026-0758, 2026-0759, 2026-0760, 2026-0761, 2026-0762, 2026-0763, 2026-0764, 2026-0770, 2026-0771, 2026-0772, 2026-0773, 2026-0774, 2026-0775, 2026-0776, 2026-0778, 2026-0779) were read and rereferred to the next committee meetings. - Next meeting: The committee’s next regular meeting is scheduled for Monday, October 19, 2026.

The committee convened at 1:01 PM and adjourned at 3:20 PM. Chair Chris Miller presided. Present were Miller, Clark-Murray, Carlucci, Carrico, Peluso, Salem (until 3:03 PM), and Holder. The meeting covered 31 agenda items, including a major downtown development incentive package, public safety capital appropriations, a JTA financial crisis update, and numerous routine items. Consent Calendar - Item 8 (2026-0662) – Established the Deep Creek Community Development District (approx. 2,091.18 acres, 2,634 residential units). Approved 7-0. - Item 12 (2026-0698) – Appropriated $111,233 for the 19th State of the River Report for the Lower St. Johns River Basin (amended, approved 7-0). - Item 13 (2026-0700) – Appropriated $9,222,943 for completion grants for three Gateway Jax projects (Gateway N4, N5, N11). Approved 7-0. - Item 15 (2026-0702) – Established honorary street designation for the Sisters of St. Joseph of St. Augustine (amended, approved 7-0). - Item 16 (2026-0705) – Transferred a surplus 2015 Chevrolet Silverado (value $10,725) to Volunteer Life Saving Corps, Inc. for ocean rescue services. Approved 7-0. - Item 17 (2026-0706) – Appropriated $1,134,952.80 in investment pool earnings for Osprey River N4 project and DEDF forgivable loans (amended, approved 7-0). - Item 18 (2026-0707) – Appropriated $181,333.85 in Emergency Solutions Grant funds for emergency shelter operations (amended, approved 6-0). - Item 20 (2026-0720) – Approved intergovernmental management agreement with SJRWMD for Pablo Creek Conservation Area (capital improvements est. $200,000, completion in 2028). Approved 7-0. - Item 22 (2026-0740) – Extended timeline for Lofts at Southbank project (construction start by 9/1/27, completion by 5/1/29). Approved 6-0. - Item 7 (2026-0644) – Renamed Cedar Point Preserve to Middlebrook Preserve (amended, approved 7-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Carnell Oliver expressed concern about JTA’s request for taxpayer dollars, calling for greater accountability of independent agencies, and referenced consolidation issues. - Eric Adler (owner of The Raven, a downtown boutique hotel) expressed strong support for the Pearl Square project (Item 6), stating a full-service grocery and pharmacy are essential for downtown growth and that projects like Pearl Square create confidence for small investors. - Keith Brown described downtown’s abandoned buildings, poor infrastructure, homelessness, and unaffordable housing, and asked local government for help. - Jim Emery (public comment card) indicated questions only for the volunteer life saving corps bill. Discussion Items 1. JTA Financial Update & Item 31 (2026-0780) – LOGT II Borrowing Authorization Cleveland Ferguson (JTA CEO) acknowledged the partnership with City Council. CFO Randall Barnes presented a detailed financial update: - FY26 budget was flawed due to optimistic revenue projections and unsupported costs. Sales tax revenues were $8.3M under budget, total shortfall $19M. - A February 2026 budget amendment addressed revenue shortfalls but cost reductions were insufficient. - Financial reporting issues included errors, lack of rigor in variance analysis, and overreporting of LOGT I revenues (corrected in Q3). - Current projected FY26 deficit: $39.9M. - For FY27, JTA cut professional services and made service changes worth $24.9M; reduction in force of 200 employees; pause Skyway passenger service (Nov 1) and NAVI (Dec 31). - Item 31 (2026-0780) allows JTA to borrow up to $30M from LOGT II funds (current balance $47M) to pay down a $25M line of credit and avoid $3M in interest. Funds must be repaid by 9/30/37 without interest. The bill passed as an emergency, 7-0. - Chair Miller noted the newly formed Financial Audit and Oversight (FAO) Select Committee will begin work (first meeting Oct 9) and aims to cooperate with JTA. - Council Member Carlucci asked about potential use of Emerald Trail capital dollars; Ferguson indicated a more holistic conversation is needed. 2. Item 14 (2026-0701) – JSO and JFRD Capital Appropriations Original bill appropriated $26M for JSO headquarters improvements, JSO warehouse consolidation ($10M), and JFRD CO2 removal system ($2M). The public safety contingency account was reduced during budget by $5.1M, and JSO discovered the warehouse purchase price was $15.45M (not $10M). Total shortfall: $10,587,427. - Council Member Salem moved to fund the gap from reserves (rather than debt). Philip Peterson (Council Auditor) confirmed reserves are healthy ($420M as of Sept 2025, with $120M in emergency reserves). The amendment passed unanimously. - Total appropriation increased to $31,450,000 (from reserves: $18,267,670 + $13,182,330). Approved 7-0. - JSO representatives (Bill Clement, Mike Shell) explained the need for consolidation: current facilities bursting with 755,000 pieces of evidence; purchasing one larger facility allows vacating two city-owned warehouses and exiting a $300K/year lease. A space assessment is underway. - Council Member Peluso raised concerns about the property’s market value ($4M) vs. purchase price ($15.45M); JSO said an appraisal came in $14.5M and the property includes multiple parcels. 3. Item 6 (2026-0541) – Gateway Jax / Pearl Square Incentive Package This was the most debated item, involving authorization of a REV grant (75%, 17-year, max $21,412,000) and a $28,250,000 completion grant for a mixed-use project with 259± residential units and at least 30,000 sq ft of grocery space (Publix or similar). - First Vote: A motion including technical amendments and an Auditor’s recommended amendment (reducing REV grant if grocery closes within 10-year lease) passed 5-2 (Miller, Salem opposed). Miller expressed concern about timing ahead of Amendment 3 vote (Nov 3). - Reconsideration: Council Member Peluso moved to reconsider to add a Streetscape Easement and Public Access Easement. Motion passed unanimously. The Peluso amendment was approved unanimously. Votes on final passage resulted in 6-0 (first time) then 5-1 (Miller opposed) due to a voting error, then finally 5-1 (Miller opposed) after proper roll call. - Key Speakers: - Colin Tarbert (DIA) opposed the Auditor’s amendment, noting negotiations allowed developer to keep REV grant if grocery closed through no fault of owner, with a cure period to backfill. He said the amendment removes that opportunity. - Cyndy Trimmer (Gateway Jax) agreed to concede to the Auditor’s request. She stated total Gateway Jax investment in Pearl Square is $1,269,518,000; completion grants total $87,196,000 (6.8%). The grocery store is not directly funded; investment is in the building. The economic impact (halo effect) of the grocery is estimated at $330–500 million in additional revenue to the city. - Council Members Carlucci and Peluso strongly supported the project, calling it critical for downtown revitalization. Carlucci said $23M is small compared to what the city faces if Amendment 3 passes. - Salem and Miller opposed due to timing (Amendment 3 vote) and fiscal caution. 4. Item 21 (2026-0721) – Jax Yacht Charter Grant (Failed) Proposed $70,000 reimbursement grant for repairs to the Royal Princess vessel. Original funding source lapsed; Council Member Carlucci moved to fund from reserves. Failed 1-6 (only Carlucci voted yes). The Auditor’s technical amendment (remove emergency language, correct scriveners) passed unanimously, but the bill failed 1-6. Several members voiced opposition, citing prior discussion and lack of support. Key Outcomes - Item 6 (2026-0541) – Approved as amended (5-1). Final vote: Miller nay. The approval includes technical amendments, Auditor’s amendment (reducing REV grant if grocery closes), and Peluso’s easement amendment. - Item 14 (2026-0701) – Approved as amended (7-0). Total $31,450,000 from reserves for JSO/JFRD projects. - Item 31 (2026-0780) – Approved as emergency as amended (7-0). JTA authorized to borrow up to $30M from LOGT II funds. - Item 21 (2026-0721) – Failed (1-6). No funding source resolved. - Multiple items deferred: Items 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 9, 11 were deferred at sponsor’s request. - Item 10 (2026-0673) – Withdrawn (7-0) by Council Member Carlucci after earlier failure in committee. - Item 19 (2026-0709) – Approved (5-2) after reconsideration. Amends Council Rule 2.210 to set quorum at a majority (4 members) instead of 5 (or 4 with two excused absences).

The Jacksonville City Council Rules Committee, chaired by Councilman Mike Gay (District 2), held a notice meeting on September 28, 2026, at 6:00 PM (18:00) to discuss the appointment of Julio Ayala to the Construction Trade Qualifying Board (CTQB) and to clarify issues raised at a prior rules committee meeting. The meeting focused on board composition, the appointment process, a code enforcement citation against the applicant, and concerns about the board's leadership. Discussion Items - Board Composition and Membership: The CTQB has 16 members appointed by the mayor and confirmed by council, serving two three-year terms with no set end date (serve until successor appointed). Currently, 15 of 16 seats are filled; one vacancy exists. Councilman Gaffney inquired about vacancies and the appointment process. Garrett Dennis (Mayor's Administration) explained that the mayor appoints all members, and the board itself recommended Julio Ayala through executive director Steven Stilner. However, board chair Clifford Snell later clarified that the board does not formally recommend applicants—they only steer candidates to apply. - Code Enforcement and Customer Complaint: Ray Hawkins (Building Code Enforcement) reported that Mr. Ayala received a $255 citation for failing to pull a permit at a job on Hermitage (related to a complaint from a resident whose mother was in hospice). The fine was paid, but the work (compressor repair) has not been fully completed, and the customer has not been made whole. Councilman Gay noted that at the prior rules meeting, he stated the nomination would not move forward until the customer was satisfied. - Qualifications and Seat Assignment: The administration initially nominated Ayala for the HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning) seat, but Stilner stated the board had recommended him for the plumbing seat, which was vacant. However, Ayala has held a plumbing license only since April 2026 (less than three years) and has pulled only two plumbing permits in Duval County. He has held an HVAC license for over three years. Councilman Gay and Councilman Bowling emphasized the ordinance requirement that trade members must have been engaged in their trade for at least three consecutive years before appointment. Thus, Ayala cannot serve in the plumbing seat. An amendment to change the seat to HVAC was suggested but no action was taken pending resolution of the customer complaint. - Board Chair Tenure and Concerns: Clifford Snell (chair since 2012) stated he has served for 14 years and is not opposing replacement, but he noted internal issues at the CTQB office that he believes need investigation. He raised that the current applicant's public complaint (only the third in 14 years) should be a red flag for a board regulating contractors. Garrett Dennis acknowledged that the administration intends to update membership on the board over the coming months, but supports its nominee. - Permit Activity and Credibility: Ray Hawkins noted that Ayala has pulled only 14 permits since 2023 for his mechanical business and 2 plumbing permits since April 2026, contradicting his claim of having hundreds of clients. Ayala explained he works mostly commercial statewide and does many repairs not requiring permits. Key Outcomes - No formal vote was taken; the meeting served to gather information and clarify facts. Councilman Gay reiterated that the nomination would not proceed until the customer (Mrs. Caldwell) is made whole. - The administration (through Dennis) expressed willingness to amend the seat to HVAC but acknowledged that the customer complaint must first be resolved. - Councilman Bowling and Councilman Gay opposed the idea of a waiver for the three-year licensure requirement, stating it would set a bad precedent for a board that handles life-safety regulations. - The committee directed the administration and OGC to look into the internal issues raised by board chair Snell, though the forum for those concerns is separate. - No public comments were recorded.

This meeting was convened by Councilmember Carlucci (chair) to discuss proposed legislation to allocate $204,000 from debt service savings to the Exchange Club Family Center for its parent aid program. The funding would not affect the current budget. Councilmembers Ken Amar (District One) and Monet Holder were present, along with representatives from the Mayor's office, the Exchange Club, and Journey Forward. Presentation and Discussion - Sue Watson, Executive Director of the Exchange Club Family Center, described the organization's 30-plus years of service in Duval County. The Center operates an evidence-based home visiting program for parents and caregivers, focusing on prevention of child abuse and neglect. Key statistics: since 2023, 90 referrals from the State Attorney's diversion program, 75 completions, and 100% of completers had no DCF involvement after one year. The program costs approximately $1,800 per child per year, compared to foster care costs of $40,000–$105,000. Last year, the Center served 231 children (150 families) on a budget just over $1 million; this year, with additional state funding, they expect to serve 500+ children (251 families). The requested $204,000 would fund two additional parent aides for Duval County, serving a minimum of 50 families. - Councilmember Amar asked clarifying questions about the per-child cost methodology and the geographic focus. Watson confirmed that Duval County provides 53% of referrals, and the requested funds would be used exclusively for Duval families, allowing other funding to support adjacent counties. - Dr. Tracy Paulson, a clinical social worker, spoke in support of the program's approach, emphasizing the importance of working with caregivers to break cycles of abuse. - Charles Griggs from the Mayor's office confirmed that the program aligns with the city's Journey Forward initiatives and that the Mayor supports the appropriation. He noted that the Journey Forward board has committed to monitoring metrics. - Councilmember Holder asked about staffing; Watson explained that the Center has 10 parent aides who conduct the in-home visits. - Councilmember Carlucci expressed strong support, citing low recidivism rates and the program's alignment with juvenile justice prevention. Key Outcomes - No formal vote was taken during this meeting. Councilmember Carlucci will be out of town when the legislation goes to committee the following week, and he urged the Exchange Club representatives to attend that committee meeting. - The council members present expressed general support, and the Mayor's office indicated backing. The legislation is expected to be considered further next week.

On September 24, 2026, the Jacksonville City Council's Financial Oversight Committee convened a noticed meeting to receive updates from the Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) regarding its financial stabilization plan, workforce reductions, and the potential reallocation of Local Option Gas Tax (LOGT) funds. Council President Howland opened the meeting by explaining the committee's new focus on JTA matters following the closure of the unbilled water capacity fees investigation. Consent Calendar - No consent calendar items were presented. Public Comments & Testimony - Mitch Reeves (Chairman, Mayport Waterfront Partnership): Expressed strong support for continued operation of the St. Johns River Ferry, noting its importance to the Mayport area and the new ferry vessel project. He emphasized the ferry's value to the community and urged protection of ferry funding. - Carnal Oliver (Public speaker): Raised concerns about JTA's contracting practices, alleging intentional racial discrimination against American freedmen contractors. He called for a carve-out to ensure compliance with the Civil Rights Acts of 1866 and 1964 in JTA policies. - John Nooney (Public speaker): Shared his personal experience riding the Skyway and buses, describing service as a 'complete cluster' and urging JTA officials to use public transit to understand rider challenges. - Pastor Timothy Johnson (Public speaker): Criticized the layoff of 200 employees before the holidays, questioned the logic of saving $40 million while approving $130 million in incentives for a high-rise, and advocated for an aquarium instead. He emphasized the need for affordable housing and jobs. Discussion Items - JTA Stabilization and Workforce Reductions: Interim CEO Cleveland Ferguson reported that JTA faced a $64 million budget gap, leading to a reduction in force of approximately $21.9 million. He detailed the separation of 33 administrative employees, 16 part-time bus operators, and 10 full-time operators. CFO Randall Barnes provided a chronology of the financial crisis, noting depleted reserves, over $20 million in payables, and a $25 million draw on a line of credit. Administrative staff will see a 45% reduction in headcount over one year, and representative staff a 29% reduction. Barnes confirmed JTA has not needed additional draws and has 28 days of cash on hand. - LOGT Funding and Reallocation: JTA proposed using up to $30 million of the $47 million LOGT2 balance as an interest-free 10-year loan to pay off the line of credit, saving $1.5 million annually. Council members discussed the flexibility of LOGT expenditures, with legal counsel Jason Gabriel noting the statutory list includes public transportation operations and maintenance. Andy Rogers, VP of Construction and Capital Programs, presented the status of LOGT2 projects, noting $294 million in unencumbered funds that could potentially be reallocated. Council President Howland suggested a three-phase approach: stabilize, right-size, and optimize. - JTA's Core Mission and Project Delivery: Council members debated whether JTA should focus more on transit rather than road projects. Councilmember Carlucci emphasized respecting JTA's independence, while Councilmember Peluso expressed concern about JTA acting as a public works department and urged the mayor's office to negotiate LOGT changes. Councilmember Miller stressed the importance of protecting vulnerable riders during service cuts. Ferguson acknowledged that reallocating some road projects to the city is on the table. - Specific Projects: Discussion included the Skyway's potential federal repayment liability (estimated between $30 and $100 million), the use of LOGT funds for Connection Plus, and the status of the Emerald Trail (with $132 million allocated). Peluso expressed strong support for the Emerald Trail and urged against diverting its funds. Key Outcomes - No formal votes or decisions were made during the meeting. The committee received the JTA presentation and will consider next steps for the Financial Oversight Committee's scope. - Council President Howland indicated he would determine the committee's future scope in the coming days, focusing on helping stabilize JTA and potentially opening up the local option gas tax for reallocation. - JTA's proposed LOGT loan legislation is scheduled for debate in the first week of October and possible approval on October 13, 2026. - JTA will engage in community meetings from October 1 to November 1 to inform the public about service changes effective November 2, 2026.

The Financial Audit and Oversight Select Committee, chaired by Council Member Ron Salem, met on September 24, 2026 at 9:30 am in City Council Chambers to receive an update from JEA on unbuilt water capacity fees. The committee reviewed JEA's proposed process for collecting fees from approximately 1,700 customers and establishing external oversight. Key attendees included Council Members Chris Miller and Mike Gage, Council Auditor Philip Peterson, Inspector General Matt LaSelle, and JEA Chief Operating Officer Rob Zamataro. Discussion Items - JEA Update on Capacity Fees: Rob Zamataro, JEA Chief Operating Officer for the Water System, presented the next steps. JEA will: (1) develop a formal policy and update tariff language for board approval, (2) conduct an evaluation period beginning in early 2027, (3) perform internal system updates, (4) identify historical fee issues, and (5) communicate with approximately 1,700 affected customers. Progress will be reported quarterly to the City Council and Council Auditor. - External Oversight: Council Auditor Philip Peterson stated that his office will review JEA's quarterly reports and plans to conduct a future audit once sufficient data exists. Inspector General Matt LaSelle expressed satisfaction that the Council Auditor will provide external oversight, addressing his only concern. - Committee Satisfaction: Council Member Chris Miller, along with Chair Salem and Vice Chair (unidentified), expressed satisfaction with the proposed process. Chair Salem noted that the monitoring by the Council Auditor aligns with the President's goal to close out the issue. Key Outcomes - The committee concluded proceedings on the unbuilt water capacity fee issue, satisfied that JEA has a transparent process and external monitoring through the Council Auditor's quarterly reviews and planned future audit. - JEA will proceed with board approval of the policy and tariff language, with implementation and customer communication occurring over the next six to twelve months. - No additional meetings on this topic are scheduled; the committee adjourned at approximately 9:45 am to reconvene for a JTA notice meeting.

The Jacksonville True Commission met on September 24, 2026, to receive an audit report, discuss budget variances, hear public testimony on Amendment 3 and CPAC matters, and plan special meetings to analyze the potential fiscal impact of proposed state constitutional Amendment 3. Commissioners also addressed internal communication strategies, efficiency findings, and corrections to previous minutes. Public Comments & Testimony - John J. Nooney (address on file) expressed concerns about the “public trust” being “crushed,” cited lack of Office of General Counsel (OGC) representation at six CPAC meetings and the Mayor’s Disability Council, and mentioned a potential fine‑land acquisition list with only three properties. He warned that if Amendment 3 passes, counties will scramble for revenue and noted that Jacksonville could lose residents to St. Johns and Clay counties. He urged the commission to focus on public access to waterways. - Ernest Smith (Chair, Urban Core CPAC) updated that the Urban Core CPAC would soon vote on a representative to the True Commission and asked the commission to convene a subcommittee on Amendment 3 to advise council on budget allocations. He noted that council is now listening to CPACs – e.g., CPACs were invited to submit CIP requests for the first time during budget hearings. Discussion Items - Auditor’s Report (Report No. 908) – Mr. Carter of the City Council Auditor’s Office presented a quarterly summary for the nine months ended June 30, 2026 (FY 2025‑26). Key points: - Overall favorable budget variance of $29.1 million (down from $30.4 million in Q2). - Revenues favorable by $1.4 million; expenditures under budget by $27.6 million. - Three funds projected negative cash at year‑end: Special Events Fund (carryovers), Motor Vehicle Inspection Fund (lower fund balance), and Office of General Counsel (internal service billing issues due to vacant attorney positions). - Independent agencies: JEA favorable variance $119.3 million (less capital transfers); JTA unfavorable variance $31.8 million ($17.4M revenue shortfall + $14.4M expenditure overrun), requiring a year‑end budget amendment; JPA favorable $8.5 million; JAA surplus $64.4 million (including $19.3M insurance proceeds from garage fire). - Commissioners questioned JTA’s $14.4M expense variance, primarily due to under‑budgeting for the CTC (community transportation coordinator) contract and associated fringe benefits. The JTA CFO is new (Randall Barnes, former city treasurer). The JTA also faces a $10.5M shortfall from half‑cent sales tax and constitutional gas tax. - The gas tax split (currently 5 of 6 cents to JTA) will shift to 3 of 6 cents in 2036. - Public Service Grant Subcommittee Update – Commissioner Loors proposed a study comparing grant payments to organizations that employ council members versus those that do not, using statistical methods to detect potential bias. He offered his expertise as a UNF political science professor. The commission discussed having him draft a research design for later consideration. - Commissioner Comments & Budget Strategy – Commissioners debated how to make their recommendations heard by city council, noting that previous reports have been ignored. Commissioner Barr reported finding a $600,000 overpayment to FDOT for mowing on Beach Boulevard after meeting directly with the mowing/landscape division – an example of low‑hanging efficiency. Discussion ensued on the need to prioritize “tier one” issues and work as a team. Several commissioners expressed frustration with JTA’s repeated failures. Commissioner Day provided detailed analysis of Amendment 3’s potential impact: if passed, net ad valorem revenue would drop from $1.248 billion to roughly $1 billion, forcing deep cuts. He noted public safety (JSO, JFRD) accounts for nearly $1 billion and is a charter responsibility, so cuts would likely fall on non‑essential services. The commission discussed raising the millage rate as an alternative but acknowledged political difficulty. Key Outcomes - Minutes Correction – Approved corrections: corrected spelling of “Tyson” and added Commissioner Loors’ request to include discussion of regression‑based forecasting in the prior minutes. - Amendment 3 Special Meetings – After debate over a proposed subcommittee vs. committee‑of‑the‑whole, Chair Day withdrew his motion and instead exercised discretion to call two special commission meetings for in‑depth study of Amendment 3: September 17, 2026 (Thursday, 4 p.m.) and October 8, 2026 (regular meeting, with Council Auditor Philip Peterson as guest). A potential third special meeting on October 22 was not confirmed due to scheduling conflicts. Individual commissioners will analyze the budget and bring findings to the September 17 special meeting. - Direct Communication Encouraged – Commissioners agreed that individual members may meet with city departments and report back, as long as they do not discuss matters before the commission among each other outside noticed meetings.