Public Meetings - Jacksonville, Florida

The Neighborhoods, Community Services, Public Health and Safety Committee met Monday, September 14, 2026, convening at 1:04 p.m. and adjourning at 4:20 p.m. in Council Chamber, City Hall, Jacksonville. Five members were present (Chair Chris Miller, Vice Chair Tyrona Clark-Murray, Jimmy Peluso, Ron Salem, and Mone' Holder); Matt Carlucci was excused and Kevin Carrico was absent/unexcused. The committee considered more than 40 agenda items, including an electric-bicycle ordinance, a JSO artificial-intelligence grant, social-service and public-safety appropriations, affordable-housing land donations, and a JEA bond authorization. Public Comments & Testimony - Carnell Oliver spoke against 2026-0672, the proposed no-cost donation of city-owned property at 1725 East 22nd St. to Destined for a Change, Inc. for affordable housing. He claimed Councilmember Pittman bypassed proper process, alleged Sunshine Law and civil-rights violations, and asked the committee not to take up the bill. He also expressed the position that council members should be full-time and called for accountability. Discussion Items - Electric bicycle ordinance (2026-0570): CM Boylan presented a rules substitute that added a shared-use path definition, set a 15 MPH maximum speed for electric bicycles on sidewalks and shared-use paths, required helmets for riders under 16, removed the minimum age, made careless or unsafe operation a violation without proof of speed, authorized City-posted restrictions and signage, and created a standardized retailer education sign. The committee adopted an amendment fixing the retailer-signage effective date as December 1, 2026. A JSO representative agreed with CM Salem that the state reckless-driving statute has more enforcement teeth and that enforcing speed limits without adequate signage is difficult; JSO said it would likely use the state statute, and JSO did not support a minimum age. The substitute was approved 4-1 with CM Salem voting no; CM Peluso said he might later explore an age requirement for app-based e-bikes. Chair Miller confirmed the ordinance and state law require riders to yield to pedestrians. - JSO AI grant (2026-0667): The committee considered accepting $1,916,232 from the Florida State Board of Immigration Enforcement for JSO, with no City match, for a Peregrine AI analytical platform, a two-year software subscription, and staff costs; the grant term runs February 17, 2025, to June 30, 2027. CM Peluso moved to defer because there is no citywide AI/data policy, expressing concern about where data would be stored and who could access it. JSO Chief Chris King and Bill Clement said JSO data would remain internally controlled, a draft JSO AI policy was ready, and a deferral could jeopardize procurement and implementation. The deferral was denied 2-3 (Holder and Peluso yes; Clark-Murray, Miller, and Salem no), and the bill was approved 4-1 (Peluso no). - Exchange Club Family Center appropriation (2026-0673): The amendment to correct the entity name and exhibits passed 5-0. The underlying $204,000 direct appropriation for the FY 2026-27 Exchange Parent Aide Program failed to report out on a 3-2 vote (Miller and Salem no; Clark-Murray, Peluso, and Holder yes). Executive Director Sue Watson testified that the organization's PSG application remained in draft status because of a technical issue; she said 90 adults had completed the program with no subsequent DCF contact for reported child abuse. CM Salem opposed the request as an end-run around the PSG and budget process. Because the committee vote was 3-2, the bill remains in committee unless discharged by the Council President; a motion to reconsider failed 2-3. - Jax Yacht Charters grant (2026-0721): The committee approved the emergency declaration and a technical amendment, then failed to report the $70,000 reimbursement grant for Coast Guard-required repairs to the Royal Princess dinner cruise vessel. The vote was 3-2 (Miller, Peluso, and Holder yes; Clark-Murray and Salem no). Owner Leslie Bellanich said the repairs were just completed and the business needed help bridging costs; the two-year agreement requires retaining 5 jobs, continuing vessel operation, and conducting at least 24 public events annually, with a clawback of funds if terms are not met. CM Peluso supported it as comparable to DIA incentives for downtown businesses; Vice Chair Clark-Murray said she did not see a sufficient benefit to the City. The bill remains in committee unless discharged. - 8000-1 LLC / Arlington Expressway redevelopment (2026-0588): Approved 5-0 after a rules amendment increased the 75% REV grant from $1,000,000 to $1,500,000, extended the payout from 10 to 11 years, and increased the private capital investment figure from $20,000,000 to $28,500,000 for the completed 95 market-rate residential units. Steve Diebenow said the prior REV grant lapsed after the project missed the December 31, 2024 deadline, that actual costs were about $28.5 million, and that the agreement was unusual. Chair Miller voiced concern about renegotiating incentives after completion. Council Auditor's Office and OED confirmed the land purchase is not included in the ROI calculation. - PSG Micro-Grant Program (2026-0624): Approved 5-0 after an amendment allowing a maximum 50% advance of a micro-grant award, with the remaining 50% paid after documentation of the initial advance is approved. Grants are set at $10,000-$20,000; the Public Service Grant Council will score applications. The Council Auditor's Office said 10% would be most consistent with the Code, but CM Salem called 50% a reasonable compromise; grants staff said they were comfortable with carry-forward language and controls. An agenda bullet still described the waiver as allowing 100% advance, but the approved amendment limited the initial advance to 50%. - JEA bond authorization (2026-0634): Approved 5-0. The resolution authorizes JEA to issue electric system bonds up to $3.9 billion, water and sewer system bonds up to $3.7 billion, and district energy bonds up to $150 million, with current debt outstanding included and estimated to cover borrowing needs for 3-4 years. JEA Treasurer A.J. Souto said total JEA debt service, including Plant Vogtle commitments, exceeds $500 million annually. CM Salem expressed concern about rate pressure on taxpayers; CM Peluso said JEA needs its own power generation to avoid rising third-party costs. Consent Calendar / Routine Approvals - Deferred at request of sponsors or for listed reasons: 2024-0966 (Live Oak settlement, CM Carrico), 2025-0361 (retiree adjustment payments, CM White), 2026-0227 (abortion expenditure prohibition, CM Diamond), 2026-0320 (Police & Fire Pension Board governance, CM White), 2026-0377 (Downtown Entertainment District report, CM Johnson), 2026-0662 (Deep Creek CDD, noticing requirements), 2026-0672 (DFAC property, CM Pittman), and 2026-0677 (Springfield Lofts, CM M. Carlucci). Public hearing for 2026-0644 (Cedar Point Preserve rename to Middlebrook Preserve) was opened and closed; the item is deferred for Historic Preservation Commission review. - Withdrawn: 2026-0666, $150,000 Salvation Army Homeless to Work appropriation, withdrawn 5-0 at the request of CM M. Carlucci. - Second reads/rereferrals: 2026-0698 (State of the River Report), 2026-0700 (Gateway completion grants), 2026-0701 (JSO headquarters, JSO warehouse consolidation, JFRD CO2 system), 2026-0702 (Sisters of St. Joseph honorary street designation), 2026-0705 (surplus truck to Volunteer Life Saving Corps), 2026-0706 (Downtown Economic Development Fund earnings), 2026-0707 (Emergency Solutions Grant), 2026-0709 (Council Rules quorum change), 2026-0720 (Pablo Creek Conservation Area management agreement), and 2026-0740 (Lofts at Southbank extension). - Unanimously approved emergency and routine items, all 5-0 unless noted: 2026-0663 ($31,227 fitness council carryover), 2026-0668 ($55,000 Minds of the Future Foundation direct contract), 2026-0669 (Operation Boost contract extension to December 31, 2026), 2026-0670 ($103,549 JU manatee study amendment), 2026-0675 (Jax Golf Management golf-cart lease amendment), 2026-0676 (four surplus lots donated to DKS Community Development LLC for affordable housing; combined assessed value $24,617), 2026-0678 ($50,000 Manatee Tank Youth Pitch Competition; $40,000 for microgrants and $10,000 administrative), 2026-0688 (Historic Stanton School grant extension, $143,710 obligated), 2026-0699 (hospital special-assessment exemption for CMS tax-waiver facilities), 2026-0703 ($50,000 sponsorships for 2027 Unity Classic and Juneteenth), 2026-0708 ($250,000 Blue Cypress Golf Course clubhouse; total project cost estimated at $2 million with $1.2 million from Jacksonville University), 2026-0710 ($55,000 Property Appraiser budget allocation), 2026-0711 ($141,120 FEMA hazard-mitigation acquisition/demolition, including $33,600 City match; $1,885.74 tax liens must be satisfied before acquisition), 2026-0712 ($91,181 carryover for District 11 Council Member initiatives), 2026-0714 ($717,482 for downtown public space maintenance; $154,800 for a Parks FTE and $562,682 for Downtown Vision, Inc.), 2026-0715 (Northside Community Involvement grant extension to March 31, 2027), 2026-0716 ($125,000 carryover for District 8 Council Member initiatives; LISC declined the grant over audit requirements), 2026-0717 ($400,000 carryover for film/TV incentive Project T), 2026-0718 (film office carryover), 2026-0719 ($50,310.25 to Ritz Chamber Players), 2026-0639 ($52,000 Edward Byrne JAG part-time data specialist; 2,000 part-time hours), and 2026-0724 (KHA license amendment for Managed Access to Child Health, Inc.). Key Outcomes - Electric-bicycle substitute approved 4-1; retailer-signage requirement effective December 1, 2026. - JSO AI grant approved 4-1 after a deferral motion failed 2-3. - PSG Micro-Grant Program and 8000-1 LLC REV grant amendments approved 5-0. - JEA bond authorization approved 5-0. - Exchange Club Family Center and Jax Yacht Charters bills each failed to report out on 3-2 votes; both remain in committee unless discharged by the Council President, and reconsideration of the Exchange Club bill failed 2-3. - Chair Miller agreed to schedule a Neighborhoods Committee discussion/workshop on grant audit, reporting, and insurance requirements after nonprofit concerns. - Listed emergency/routine items, land donations, grant extensions, and appropriations were approved 5-0; deferred and withdrawn items remain as noted. - The next regular meeting of the committee is scheduled for Monday, October 5, 2026.

The City of Jacksonville's Special Committee on Drowning Prevention held its first meeting on September 9, 2026, from 3:30 PM to approximately 5:00 PM in the Council Chamber. Chaired by Council Member Reggie Gaffney, Jr., the committee was formed in response to recent child drownings in his district, with a total of over 10 drowning deaths in the last three to four years. Council President Howland charged the committee with six areas: emergency response, prevention/public education, youth elopement/special needs water safety, public retention pond safety, community partnerships, and best practices/legislative authority. Public Comments & Testimony - Sonya Leggett (6320 Frey Lake Avenue, Jacksonville): Grandparent of an autistic child, expressed frustration that meetings lack action. Suggested placing cameras and sensors on retention ponds and holding apartment owners liable. - Darcia Bennett (3946 St. John's Avenue, representing Julius Guineard Foundation): Asked the committee to prioritize free or low-cost swimming lessons in high-needs neighborhoods, water safety education, and a youth lifeguard pathway. Offered to collaborate with city departments. - Addison Patrick (address on file): Supported free swimming lessons and CPR classes. Proposed adding whistles, perimeter alarms, and environmentally friendly dye to reduce pond attractiveness. Recommended incentives for HOAs and private property owners to install barriers, and a reporting system for water bodies on private property. - Adrian Menzies (29 Arbor Club Drive, Ponte Vedra Beach, representing Forterra Fencing): Raised technical concerns about fence codes for retention ponds, such as maintenance access requiring large gates not compatible with self-closing latches, and erosion issues. Asked whether policies would apply to existing ponds or only new developments. Discussion Items - Chair Gaffney opened by acknowledging two recent drownings in his district: 7-year-old Chance Brown on August 5, and a 3-year-old on August 24. He noted that a previous notice meeting on August 25 drew 100–150 people but was insufficient time. The six charges from Council President Howland were read aloud. - Council Member Mike Gay expressed hope for preventive measures and community awareness. - Council Vice Chair Tyrona Clark-Murray expected legislation to ensure safer pond construction, better education for parents and apartment managers, and minimal pushback, stating “there’s no price on a life.” - Office of General Counsel (Shannon) explained that the city’s ability to impose restrictions depends on pond ownership and location, and that Senate Bill 180 will be relevant when facts are gathered. - Public Works Director Steve Long noted that the city has hundreds of publicly owned ponds, but private ponds number in the thousands. He said an exact inventory is not available but can be compiled. - Council Research (Stephen Libby) reported finding 11 drowning deaths of children on the autism spectrum since 2021, correcting an earlier statement of six. - JFRD Chief Andrew Aguila distributed an executive brief with 86 water-related incidents over the past two years, the majority in residential and private pools, not just ponds. He offered to present findings at the next meeting. - St. Johns River Water Management (Doug Honkey) agreed to provide a ballpark figure of private ponds and inspection frequency at a future meeting. He also noted that the agency’s codes only address slope safety, not broader drowning prevention. - Council Member Clark-Murray compared St. Johns codes to South Florida water management codes, which include safety language, and urged consideration of adding safety requirements. She referenced “Chloe’s Law” requiring fencing near state roads. - Chair Gaffney emphasized the need to identify high-risk ponds (within 300 feet of schools, sidewalks, playgrounds) and to address both public and private properties. - Assistant Chief of Planning (Perola) stated that only planned unit developments (PUDs) allow conditions on proposals, and conditions require applicant agreement. Code changes would be needed for broader planning recommendations. - Council Member Gay requested a full legal analysis of the city’s allowable parameters for new developments versus existing ponds. - Council Member Hendries (if present) suggested organizing the work into four buckets: public/private and existing/future, and building on existing education programs. Key Outcomes - Next meeting scheduled for September 23, 2026, 3:30–5:00 PM. The committee will meet every other Wednesday until the end of the year. - Action items assigned: - Public Works and St. Johns River Water Management to provide a pond inventory (public and private) and identify high-risk ponds. - JFRD to present detailed data on drowning incidents. - Council Research to investigate best practices from five comparable cities (Tampa, Hillsborough, Orange, Broward, plus one more, and possibly Nassau County). - Chair Gaffney to reach out to the Agency for Persons with Disabilities and the autism community for a database of children with disabilities. - OGC to provide a definitive analysis of the city’s legislative authority regarding new and existing ponds. - No immediate moratorium or permit changes were enacted. The committee will continue gathering information before drafting legislation.

The Jacksonville City Council met on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at 5:00 PM in the Council Chamber. The meeting included presentations, quasi-judicial items, a consent agenda, public comments, public hearings on numerous ordinances and resolutions, tentative approval of millage rates and the FY 26-27 budget, and introduction of new business. The meeting adjourned at 8:27 PM. Consent Calendar - Minutes from August 25, 2026, were approved 18-0. - Communications from the Mayor and other entities were filed. - Presentations: framed resolutions for Florida State College at Jacksonville’s 60th anniversary (2026-681-A) and for Duval County Supervisor of Elections and poll workers (2026-159-A) were presented. - Quasi-Judicial Ordinances (9 items): All rezoning, zoning exception, sign waiver, and variance applications were approved unanimously (17-0), as recommended by the LUZ committee. - Consent Agenda: 13 items (2025-0775, 2026-0545, and 2026-0625 through 2026-0686) were approved 17-0, except item 20 (2026-0684) which was pulled. Item 2026-0684 (honoring Reverend Dr. Conley H. Hughes, Jr.) was amended on the floor (changed high school reference) and then approved 17-0. Items 2025-0775 and 2026-0545 were withdrawn. Public Comments & Testimony - Over 40 speakers addressed the Council during the public comment period (limited to 2 minutes each due to volume). Key themes included: - Affordable Housing Trust Fund: Numerous residents and community leaders urged the Council to reinstate the proposed $4.9 million affordable housing trust fund, citing rising rents (up 34% in five years), unaffordable homeownership, and the strain on essential workers. Speakers included Rev. A.V. Kearney, Adam Gray, Carolyn Rosenberry, Lonnie Mills, and many others. - Home Occupations and Right to Garden: Several speakers supported the home occupation bill (2026-0376) and called for protection of community gardens, with one resident (Kim Fontecchio) alleging discriminatory code enforcement. - Police and Fire Pension Fund Divestment: Multiple speakers from the Jacksonville Palestine Solidarity Network urged the Council to direct the pension fund to divest from bonds in Teva Pharmaceuticals, citing the company’s role in the opioid crisis and its Israeli operations. - Flock Cameras: Speakers both supported (Latasha Hobbs, mother of murder victim) and opposed (Casey Jones) the use of automated license plate readers. - TNR Funding: Advocates requested increased funding for trap-neuter-return programs for community cats. - Other: Comments on the proposed concrete batch plant, neighborhood bill of rights, code enforcement issues, and the FY 26-27 budget. Discussion Items - 2026-0376 (Home Occupations): After a public hearing with one speaker, the substitute bill was approved 16-0, modifying home occupation regulations to comply with state law. - 2026-0590 (Firearms Preemption): Extensive debate. The bill repeals and amends several city code sections to comply with state preemption of firearm regulations. Council members Miller, Peluso (opposed), Diamond (supported), and Matt Carlucci spoke. Passed 14-3 (Pittman, Johnson, Peluso opposed). - 2026-0671 (FL Black Excellence Festival): Emergency passage approved 16-1 (Diamond opposed) to extend the grant agreement. - 2026-0674 (PUD Correction): Emergency passage approved 17-0 to add an omitted condition. - 2026-0627 through 2026-0645 (Third Reading Ordinances): All approved 17-0 with amendments, including road right-of-way closure, Dinsmore Area Sidewalks funding, honorary street naming for Preston H. Haskell III, CDBG funding allocation, and a contract with Downtown Vision Inc. for James Weldon Johnson Park management. - Tentative Millage and Budget (2026-0501, 0502, 0503, 0504): After required millage rate statements, public hearings, and a motion to reconsider (on 2026-0502), the Council tentatively approved the millage rates and the FY 26-27 consolidated government budget as substituted by the Finance Committee. Votes: 2026-0501 (15-2, Carrico and Diamond opposed), 2026-0502 (15-2 after reconsideration), 2026-0503 (15-2), and 2026-0504 (16-1, Diamond opposed). Council members noted the need for a two-thirds vote for final adoption due to rates exceeding the rollback rate. - Introduction of New Items: Numerous resolutions and ordinances were introduced and assigned to committees, including appointments to boards, heritage month declarations, and various appropriations and contract amendments. Key Outcomes - Quasi-Judicial Items: All 9 items approved 17-0. - Consent Agenda: Approved 17-0 with one item amended. - 2026-0376 (Home Occupations): Passed 16-0. - 2026-0590 (Firearms Preemption): Passed 14-3. - 2026-0671 (Emergency): Passed 16-1. - 2026-0674 (Emergency): Passed 17-0. - Tentative Millage Bills: 2026-0501, 0502, 0503 approved 15-2 each; 2026-0504 approved 16-1. Final adoption scheduled for September 22, 2026. - 2026-0723 (Polling Place Change): Emergency approved 17-0. - 2026-0739 (Steve Cassada Retirement): Emergency resolution approved 17-0 with floor amendment. - All 3rd Reading Ordinances: Approved 17-0 with amendments. - Public Hearings Continued: Several land use items (2026-0126, 0127, 0523, 0524, 0631, 0632) continued to September 22, 2026. - Next Meeting: Regular Council meeting scheduled for September 22, 2026 at 4:00 PM (budget adoption).

The meeting, convened by Councilman Joe Carlucci at 3:00 PM on September 8, 2026, addressed the restoration of $4.9 million cut from the city's affordable housing trust fund during the finance committee budget hearings. Council members, staff, and the public discussed the impact of the cut and the path forward to restore funding while balancing public safety needs. Public Comments & Testimony - Chris Folds, CEO of First Coast Habitat (formerly HabiJax), spoke in support of restoring the down payment assistance program. He noted that Habitat could build 150 homes per year if enough qualified buyers existed, but rising home prices, interest rates, and insurance costs have made homeownership harder for families earning 81–120% of Area Median Income (AMI). He highlighted that 34% of their clients work in healthcare, 11% in education, 11% in warehousing/logistics, and 11% in service industries. Families buying through Habitat see a roughly $200/month decrease in housing costs and begin building equity. Since 1988, their clients have paid nearly $40 million in property taxes. - Joy Vo (District 11 resident) expressed support for a housing trust fund similar to the Kids Hope Alliance, arguing that stable housing reduces stress, improves school performance, and lowers law enforcement intervention. She emphasized that government funding and oversight can enhance nonprofit efforts. - Robin Salsgraff, Executive Director of the Jacksonville Community Land Trust (JCLT), urged restoring the full $4.9 million, which included $1.5 million for down payment assistance, $2.4 million for attainable home construction, and $1 million for utility tap fee assistance. She explained that all three investments are needed to close the affordability gap. Community land trust homes remain affordable for future buyers, providing lasting public value. - Linda Allen (District 7) spoke about essential workers (grocery clerks, servers, trash collectors) who cannot afford housing. She noted her grandson moved back in with his parents after losing his job and cannot afford an apartment. - Adam Gray, Pastor at Riverside Church and co-president of iCare, reported that iCare's house meetings across all council districts consistently identified affordable housing as a top concern. He said this is a citywide issue affecting all demographics. - Carol Hawkins (iCare) emphasized that the affordability gap is widest for essential workers at 50% AMI, and a trust fund would be the most effective way to serve that population. Discussion Items - Joshua Hicks, Affordable Housing Administrator for the Neighborhoods Department, presented the mayor's original $4.9 million proposal, which included three programs: a Capital Stack development fund (previously used to support over 200 units under construction), an attainable housing program to offset utility tap fees (up to $20,000 per property), and a down payment assistance program for workforce housing (81–120% AMI). He noted Jacksonville has a deficit of 47,000 units at 50% AMI, 59% of renters and 22% of homeowners are cost-burdened, and the city had 15,000 evictions in the past year—the most in five years. - Council Auditor Brian Parks confirmed that the $4.9 million was moved to a public safety contingency fund, which currently has a balance of $23,405,097. - Councilman Joe Carlucci read a formal proposal to restore the $4.9 million from the contingency to the affordable housing trust fund, noting that this would require 10 votes (rather than 13 if using reserves). He pledged to support the finance committee chair in reaching the target $26 million public safety contingency by using additional reserve dollars if needed. - Councilwoman Monet Holder expressed strong support, stating affordable housing was a major campaign issue. She affirmed the full $4.9 million should be restored and that she would work on a budget amendment. - Councilman Nick Peluso supported the restoration, noting the importance of understanding AMI levels. He clarified that 50% AMI equates to roughly $44–45,000 annual income for an individual, with affordable rent around $700–$900 for a one-bedroom. He emphasized that many new developments are well above these numbers. - Councilman Reggie Gaffney supported the funding, observing that the housing crisis shows up in other areas (requests for food and utility assistance) as constituents choose rent/mortgage over necessities. - Councilwoman Tyrona Clark Murray highlighted the down payment assistance program's impact, sharing her mother's success story with a similar program 40 years ago. She stressed that homeownership builds wealth and financial security. - Hicks estimated that the $4.9 million would serve 600–700 households: capital stack (200–300 units), down payment assistance (100–150 families), and utility tap fee program (around 300 units). He noted this compares favorably to the $5 million loan for Campbell Cove (240 units). - Discussion on mechanics: Councilman Peluso asked about the three public safety projects funded by the contingency: $14 million for JSO lease buy-down, $10 million for JSO warehouse consolidation, and $2 million for JFRD CO2 removal system. The finance committee chair is introducing a bill to pull from reserves, likely requiring 13 votes. Carlucci reiterated his willingness to support additional reserve draws. Key Outcomes - No formal vote was taken, but a strong consensus emerged among attending council members to restore the full $4.9 million to the affordable housing trust fund. - Councilman Carlucci indicated he may hold another meeting on Friday, September 11, to allow more council members to participate before the final budget vote. He noted his willingness to work with the finance committee chair to ensure both affordable housing and public safety priorities are met. - Expectation that a budget amendment will be introduced to restore the funding, with Councilwoman Holder committing to work on the amendment.

Councilman Rockmont Johnson convened a town hall meeting for Jacksonville's District 14 at Hillcrest Church. The meeting focused on budget updates, the Argyle sign replacement, the College Road sidewalk project, and the long-awaited Old Middleburg Road widening project (Phase 2A). Residents raised concerns about traffic safety, property access, and community amenities. The meeting began at 6:08 PM and included a presentation from the Public Works Department and a question-and-answer session. Public Comments & Testimony - Bill (Argyle Civic Council president) thanked the city for prioritizing the Collins Road piece and advocated for a senior center in the area, noting that residents currently travel to Clay County for services. - Steve Horn (resident) questioned the design of dedicated U-turns, whether they would accommodate tractor-trailers and fire trucks, and requested crash statistics from similar road widenings. - Kathy Bank expressed safety concerns about children walking from stores near Blanding without sidewalks and questioned why the College Road sidewalk extension does not go all the way to Blanding. - Christine Pierre (Taylorfield Road resident) argued that prohibiting left turns out of Taylorfield Road is unreasonable and safety concerns seem exaggerated; she requested a design variance. - Richard Stasco (resident) asked about queuing effects from single left-turn lanes and how the design addresses charter school traffic. - Gail Adams noted confusion about the DOT construction on 103rd Street and the new traffic pattern at Old Middleburg Road, including signage for no turn on red. - Bruce Tyson asked how the decision was made to place a multi-use path on one side of Old Middleburg Road. - Another resident requested confirmation that retention ponds would be fenced off for safety. Discussion Items - Budget Update: Councilman Johnson reported that the city's $2.2 billion budget includes cuts to public service and cultural service grants, which he opposed. He also opposed a 10% cut to Kids Hope Alliance, which would reduce funding by $5 million and affect 5,000 children. He noted that the budget adds $6 million for sidewalks. - Argyle Sign Replacement: Johnson presented a conceptual design for restoring the iconic Argyle sign with solar lighting. The project is funded through Jaguars community benefit dollars. Coordination with FDOT is ongoing to create a new traffic pattern at the intersection. - College Road Sidewalk: A planned 6-foot sidewalk on the north side from CSX Crossing near US 17 to Pine Birdie Lane will improve drainage and pedestrian safety. Construction is expected to begin in Q2 2027. - Old Middleburg Road Phase 2A: Scott Carter (Chief of Engineering) and Jason Hall (ETM) presented the project scope: a four-lane divided road from Argyle Forest Boulevard to Collins Road, with 10-foot sidewalks, a four-lane section, U-turns, and a new signal at the fire station. Construction will start in September 2026 with clearing and utility relocations, followed by roadway work, aiming for completion by Q3/Q4 2027. The project uses static compaction to minimize vibrations. Phase 2B (the remaining 2-mile middle section) will begin after land acquisition (currently 50-67% complete). - Wonderland Corridor: Johnson introduced a proposed business development district along 103rd Street to Cecil Commerce Center, contingent on a business owner survey and potential small millage increase. - Parks Update: A new regional park (10-15 acres) will be located near Walmart on Collins Road, replacing an earlier site. A community center is planned pending design input. Jensen Point Park on 118th Street will receive LED lighting and increased police patrols. Key Outcomes - Old Middleburg Road Phase 2A: Contracts with Coxwell Construction are being finalized; a pre-construction meeting is scheduled for September 2026. City staff will address specific resident concerns (e.g., Taylorfield Road access, fire truck U-turn capability, conflicting signage on 103rd Street, and driveway evaluations). - FDOT Coordination: The city will ask FDOT about completion timeline and signal timing for 103rd Street/Old Middleburg Road intersection. Councilman Johnson noted improved state-level relationships with Senator Tracy Davis and Representative Wyman Duggan. - Sidewalk Gaps: The city will investigate extending the College Road sidewalk from Dollar General to Blanding Boulevard. - Access and Safety: Staff will re-evaluate the Taylorfield Road design but emphasized safety concerns over having two closely spaced left-turn openings. The final design will consider all affected properties along Old Middleburg Road. - Budget Advocacy: Councilman Johnson committed to fighting to restore funding for Kids Hope Alliance and public/cultural service grants during full council budget votes. - Community Engagement: Meeting recordings will be made available; residents can submit additional questions via email to Scott Carter (SCarter1@coj.net) or through Councilman Johnson's office.

The Transportation, Energy & Utilities Committee of the Jacksonville City Council met on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, at 9:00 AM in the Council Chamber. Chair Ken Amaro presided, with all seven members present. The meeting was adjourned at 9:20 AM. The committee approved four items, deferred two items, and held discussions on upcoming notice meetings and budget amendments. Public Comments & Testimony - Mr. Carnell Oliver spoke on Item 2026-0633 (traffic calming funds for District 5). He expressed frustration with the distribution of capital improvement funds and advocated for a bilateral trade agreement to keep funds within historic Black American communities, referencing the Civil Rights Act of 1866 and 1881. He urged the council to leave communities to manage their own projects. Discussion Items - Chair Amaro welcomed new Council Member Moné Holder, who declined to make opening remarks. - Council Member Matt Carlucci announced two publicly noticed meetings on Friday, September 4, 2026: the first at 1:00 PM on reinserting the Mayor's affordable housing proposal into the budget, and the second at 2:30 PM on the Exchange Club Family Center's parent aid program. He expressed support for the affordable housing amendment, noting that progress is made "by the inch." - Council Member Holder echoed support for affordable housing and programs for children and families. - Council Member Jimmy Peluso suggested expanding the affordable housing meeting to also discuss moving PSG and CSG grants above the line in the budget. Council Member Carlucci preferred to keep the meeting focused on affordable housing to respect the budget process, but was open to broader discussion if time permitted. - Carla Schell, Office of General Counsel, advised that the existing meeting notice limits discussion to affordable housing and recommended a revised notice (72 hours preferred, 24 hours minimum) if the scope is to be expanded. - Chair Amaro asked committee members for suggestions for future presentations to inform the committee's work. Key Outcomes - Item 2026-0570 (Electric Bicycles ordinance): Deferred at the request of Council Member Boylan. - Item 2026-0627 (Gate Parkway right-of-way closure): Public hearing opened and closed; no public speakers. An amendment correcting book/page and RE number references was approved. The bill as amended was approved 7-0. - Item 2026-0629 (Traffic control jurisdiction for Montevilla at Bartram Lakes): Approved 7-0. - Item 2026-0633 (Appropriation of $100,000 for traffic calming in District 5): Approved 7-0. - Item 2026-0634 (JEA bond issuance): Deferred at the request of JEA. - Item 2026-0635 (Honorary street designation for Preston H. Haskell III – renaming Museum Circle to "Haskell Way"): Public hearing opened and closed; no public speakers. An amendment correcting the council district to District 5 and other administrative corrections was approved. The bill as amended was approved 7-0. Waivers were granted for Code Sec. 745.105(i)(2) (honoree deceased for at least five years) and (i)(3) (honoree resided within five miles for ten years). - Item 2026-0644 (Renaming Cedar Point Preserve to "Middlebrook Preserve"): Deferred due to a pending public hearing in the Neighborhoods, Community Services, Public Health and Safety Committee on September 14, 2026. - Item 2026-0662 (Establishment of Deep Creek Community Development District): Read for the second time and rereferred.

The Land Use & Zoning Committee of the Jacksonville City Council convened on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, at 5:00 PM in the Council Chamber, City Hall, under Chair Joe Carlucci. The committee addressed 49 agenda items, including deferrals, public hearings, discussion, and votes on zoning changes, land use amendments, exceptions, variances, and waivers. The meeting began with Councilmember Rahman Johnson clarifying that decisions about Venetia Elementary School are made by the Duval County School Board, not the City Council. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 9 – 2026-0532 (Rezoning for Concrete Batch Plant, Soutel Industrial PUD): Multiple speakers opposed the rezoning of 16.73 acres at 0 Union Heights Rd, 0 Bob-o-link Rd E, and 7167 Old Kings Rd from IL to PUD to permit a concrete batch plant. Speakers included Vanessa Collins Hopkins, Samantha Ceres, Wells Todd, James Matchett, and Lassondra Sawyer. They cited lack of environmental impact studies, health risks from particulate matter and chemical runoff, proximity to homes (over 1,000 feet from the nearest residence, but the plant would be situated in the existing heavy industrial portion), groundwater contamination concerns for residents with wells, and the historical context of redlining. They urged a community meeting (scheduled for September 10 at 6 PM at the Legends Center) and further environmental review. The public hearing was continued to September 15, 2026. Discussion Items - Item 11 – 2026-0554 (Rezoning at 1414 Causey Lane, Monument Road): The applicant, John Herbert, sought to rezone 2.53 acres from RLD-60 to CN (Commercial Neighborhood) with no specific plans, only to make the property more marketable. Councilmembers questioned the lack of a concrete plan and whether the applicant had consulted District 2 Councilmember Gay. Staff clarified that CN allows 15 uses by right, including offices, retail, and restaurants without drive-throughs. The applicant stated the property is under contract and time-sensitive. After debate, the committee approved the bill 7-0. - Item 17 – 2026-0560 (Zoning Exception for Fat Tuesdays, 1043 & 1045 Park St): The committee approved a zoning exception to allow full alcohol sales (liquor, beer, wine) for on-premises consumption, permanent outside service, and a nightclub in a former restaurant space in Five Points. The applicant, Amanda Hessein, stated the tenant, Fat Tuesdays, will combine two storefronts and operate a kitchen and bar. Councilmembers expressed support for revitalizing Five Points. The bill was approved 7-0 with an amendment adding a condition from the Planning Department. - Item 25 – 2026-0590 (Firearms Preemption Repeal): The committee approved a rules amendment (striking "weapons or" and inserting "or she") and then passed the bill as amended 7-0. This ordinance repeals several city code sections related to firearms regulations to comply with state preemption, with amendments to remaining sections. - Item 49 – 2026-0674 (Emergency – PUD Condition Addition): The committee voted 6-0 to approve an emergency ordinance amending Ordinance 2025-61-E to include an omitted condition that lots 3, 4, 5, and 6 on a site plan shall be limited to one story in height. The emergency passage required a 2/3 vote. Key Outcomes - Deferred Items (Public Hearing Next Cycle – September 15, 2026): - Items 1 (2026-0124) and 2 (2026-0125) – Rampart Rd FLUM and rezoning. - Items 26 (2026-0618) through 30 (2026-0622) – various rezoning requests. - Items 32 (2026-0631) and 33 (2026-0632) – text amendments to the Comprehensive Plan. - Public Hearings Continued to September 15, 2026: - Items 3 (2026-0126) and 4 (2026-0127) – Pitts Rd FLUM and rezoning. - Item 6 (2026-0436) – Acree PUD. - Items 7 (2026-0523) and 8 (2026-0524) – Yellow Water Rd FLUM and rezoning. - Item 9 (2026-0532) – Soutel Industrial PUD (concrete batch plant). - Item 15 (2026-0558) – Richardson Rd rezoning. - Item 16 (2026-0559) – Philips Hwy rezoning. - Item 23 (2026-0566) – Maxville-Middleburg Rd road frontage waiver. - Approved Items (with vote tallies): - Item 5 (2026-0376) – Home Occupations ordinance (Rules Substitute) – Approved 7-0. - Item 10 (2026-0553) – Causey Lane FLUM – Approved 6-0. - Item 11 (2026-0554) – Causey Lane rezoning – Approved 7-0. - Item 12 (2026-0555) – Cahoon Rd rezoning – Approved 7-0. - Item 17 (2026-0560) – Park St zoning exception – Approved 7-0. - Item 18 (2026-0561) – Normandy Blvd beer/wine exception – Approved 7-0. - Item 19 (2026-0562) – Normandy Blvd variance – Approved 7-0. - Item 20 (2026-0563) – Normandy Blvd full alcohol exception (Tobacco Galore) – Approved 7-0. - Item 21 (2026-0564) – Sunbeam Rd sign waiver – Approved 6-0. - Item 22 (2026-0565) – Atlantic Blvd sign waiver – Approved 5-0. - Item 24 (2026-0567) – Alvin Ct road frontage waiver – Approved 5-0. - Item 25 (2026-0590) – Firearms preemption repeal – Approved 7-0. - Item 31 (2026-0623) – Baycenter Rd alcohol exception for paddle/fitness facility – Approved 6-0. - Item 49 (2026-0674) – Emergency PUD condition – Approved 6-0. - Second Readings (set for future public hearings): Items 34-48 (2026-0647 through 2026-0661) were read into the record and will be heard at subsequent meetings.

The Land Use & Zoning Committee met on September 1, 2026, at 4:30 PM in the Council Chamber, City Hall. Chair Joe Carlucci presided, and the meeting lasted approximately four minutes, adjourning at 4:34 PM. The committee processed a large number of bills through deferrals, open continues, second readings, and action items with minimal discussion or debate. Deferrals - Bills 2026-124, 125, 618, 619, 620, 621, 622, 631, and 632 were deferred. Open Continues - Bills 2026-126, 127, 436, 524, 523, 532, 557, 558, 559, and 566 were placed on open continue. Second Readings - Bills 2026-647 through 661 were placed on second reading. Action Items - The following bills were moved as action items with "open close" or "ex parte" motions: 2026-376 (rules substitute, non-LUZ matter), 553, 554, 555, 556, 560, 561, 562, 563, 564, 565, 567, 590, 623, and 674 (emergency). - Bill 2026-590 (firearms bill) was moved to action item number one at the request of the chair, despite not being requested by the sponsor. - Emergency bill 2026-674 was noted as requiring a two-thirds vote of the full council. Key Outcomes - The committee approved the deferral, open continue, and second reading lists as announced. - All listed action items were moved and will proceed to the full Council. - The meeting adjourned at 4:34 PM after a record-setting four-minute duration.

The Finance Committee of the Jacksonville City Council met on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, at 1:00 PM in the Council Chamber. The meeting was chaired by Will Lahnen. The committee considered a range of items including the tentative millage rates, the FY 26-27 consolidated government budget, and several ordinances and resolutions. A presentation was given on the James Weldon Johnson Park project. The meeting adjourned at 1:47 PM. Consent Calendar - Item 3 (2025-0775): Ordinance to prohibit certain expenditures to the Mayor and Council Members was withdrawn unanimously (6-0). - Item 24 (2026-0625): Appropriation of $19,000 for JHFA support services was approved 6-0. - Item 25 (2026-0626): Appropriation of $25,000 grant for Duval County Teen Court was approved 6-0. - Item 26 (2026-0628): Appropriation of $500,000 grant for Dinsmore Area Sidewalks was amended and approved 6-0. - Item 27 (2026-0633): Appropriation of $100,000 for traffic calming in District 5 was approved 6-0. - Item 29 (2026-0636): CDBG appropriation amended and approved 6-0. - Item 30 (2026-0637): Settlement with Cedar Grove Corporation for $125,000 approved 6-0. - Item 31 (2026-0638): Opioid settlement funding of $499,576 to UF Health approved 6-0. - Item 33 (2026-0645): Contract with Downtown Vision, Inc. for James Weldon Johnson Park management was amended and approved 6-0. - Item 43 (2026-0671): Emergency extension of grant for Florida Black Excellence Festival approved 5-1 (Diamond opposed). Public Comments & Testimony - Carnell Oliver addressed the committee, filing a formal petition related to item 504 (budget) and requesting individual bonds for elected officials. He expressed concerns about accountability and past actions of council members. Discussion Items - James Weldon Johnson Park Presentation: Parks Director Daryl Joseph presented updated plans for the park, reducing the project cost from an initial $12-13 million to $5 million in FY 26-27 and $750,000 in FY 27-28. The design includes nine flexible rooms, a food truck court, gaming area, shade trees, and historical markers. The park will be ADA compliant. Construction is expected to begin summer 2027 and take about one year. Council members asked about entry points, chess/checker tables, flags, and signage honoring James Weldon Johnson. - Tentative Millage Rates (Items 7-9): The committee considered millage levy ordinances for the General Services District and Urban Services Districts. Council Auditor Phillip Peterson explained a new state law requiring a two-thirds vote for any millage rate above the rolled-back rate. The committee tentatively approved all three millage ordinances by votes of 5-1, with Councilmember Diamond voting no. - FY 26-27 Consolidated Government Budget (Item 10): The committee moved a substitute budget, then approved an amendment to adjust the James Weldon Johnson Park funding (reducing current year debt from $6.75 million to $5 million and adding $750,000 to next year). The budget as substituted was tentatively approved 6-1 (Diamond opposed). Chair Lahnen highlighted that the proposed budget is lower than the prior year for the first time since FY 12-13, with a $24 million reduction, no reliance on reserves, and a net reduction in non-public safety headcount. Key Outcomes - Approvals: Numerous consent items approved as listed above. - Tentative Approvals: Millage rates for GSD (11.1919 mills), USDs 2-4 (7.9012 mills), and USD 5 (9.4208 mills) were tentatively approved 5-1. - Budget Tentative Approval: The FY 26-27 consolidated budget was tentatively approved 6-1 as substituted, with an amendment for JWJ Park. - Emergency Approval: Item 43 (Florida Black Excellence Festival extension) passed 5-1 on emergency basis. - Deferrals: Many budget-related items (Items 11-22, 28, 32) were deferred, as well as items 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 21, 22, 23. - Next Steps: The budget and millage rates will go to full council for tentative approval on September 8 and September 22, 2026. The next regular finance committee meeting is scheduled for September 15, 2026.