Council Budget Proposal Fully Funds Key Services While Criticizing Mayor Deagan

City Council President Carrico announced a fully funded budget for essential services during a press conference, emphasizing significant financial relief for Jacksonville residents. Key areas such as garbage collection, infrastructure, police, fire, and rescue services will see full funding, while millage rates will be cut and more money will be added to reserves. Carrico stated, "All these things happened in this budget," highlighting the council's commitment to providing relief to citizens.

The discussion also turned to the leadership of Mayor Deagan, with council members expressing concerns about her administration's direction. One council member criticized the mayor's performance, stating, "It's going to be very easy to say why they need to send Mayor Deagan packing." This sentiment reflects a growing dissatisfaction among some council members regarding the current administration's effectiveness.

As the council prepares to pass the budget, the focus remains on ensuring that essential services are maintained while addressing leadership challenges within the city. The next steps will involve discussions on the budget's approval and ongoing scrutiny of the mayor's actions.