Committee debates reciprocity with neighboring counties; tables pilot proposal

The JSEB committee debated a proposal to establish reciprocal certification agreements with surrounding counties — St. Johns, Nassau and Clay (Baker had not yet engaged) — that would allow certified small businesses to compete for set-aside contracts across county lines. Committee members described the proposal as a way to increase opportunities for firms that live near Duval's borders and to circulate more contract dollars regionally.

Staff said many JSEB-certified businesses already reside just outside Duval County and that some businesses working in Duval are organized outside the county's jurisdiction. Staff described the neighboring counties as amenable to conversations and said reciprocity would "open doors" for current JSEBs and provide more work for local firms.

Several council members raised concerns. They questioned whether Duval taxpayers should underwrite management and administrative costs if non-Duval businesses receive city-set-aside opportunities, whether the city should charge neighboring counties for administrative support, and how reciprocity would affect Duval-based firms' chances to win contracts. Some members suggested a one-county pilot for one year before broader expansion; others urged staffing and cost-share agreements so the city's taxpayers are not left covering the added administrative burden.

A motion to create a formalized collaborative pipeline with the named counties was made and seconded for discussion, but the committee tabled further action and directed staff to prepare more detailed analysis, including potential pilot parameters, recommended cost-sharing arrangements, projected counts of eligible businesses and reporting requirements. The chair asked staff to have county engagement numbers and a pilot proposal ready for the next meeting.