Committee approves solid-waste measure after debate; committee also clears park, merchant and air monitoring grants

A Jacksonville Neighborhoods Community Services Public Health and Safety Committee meeting on Monday, May 19 approved a contested solid-waste measure and advanced several other bills and budget adjustments affecting parks, neighborhood cleanup, air monitoring, housing rehab and grants.

Solid-waste measure approved after debate Councilors took up a solid-waste ordinance (agenda item 4, ordinance number referenced as 2025-266 in the committee record). Sponsor Councilmember MacCarlucci, joined by auditors and counsel in the room, summarized the measure as a final step in a years-long effort to address service quality and fiscal shortfalls in the city’s solid-waste program. The ordinance drew extensive discussion; Councilmember Michael Boylan, Councilmember Tyrone Clark Murray and others spoke in favor, while at least one member expressed reservations. The committee recorded a 5-1 roll-call: 5 yeas and 1 nay, and the measure was reported out of the committee for further council action.

Other items the committee approved - Peace Memorial Park (2025-277): The committee approved a parks project that codifies the name Peace Memorial Park and attaches grant and CIP exhibits. Riverside Avenue Preservation and donors including the Weaver family were described as partners;…