JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — This week marks one year since Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan took office, and she is reflecting on some of her biggest accomplishments.
Deegan said she is proud of all the work her team has done in the last year, including her healthcare program, the 'Stadium of the Future' deal and the launch of her River City Readers initiative. But, Deegan said her biggest priority is setting up the city for long-term success.
Downtown Development and Health Initiatives
The first female mayor of Jacksonville marked her first year in office with growth, development and eyes on the future.
Most notably, the return of the Friendship Fountain, the completion of the first link of the Emerald Trail and the biggest deal in Jacksonville's history – the Jaguars billion-dollar stadium deal.
RELATED: At least 4 construction projects to be built at the same time on Bay Street in Downtown Jacksonville
"It's critically important to attracting companies, to attracting young people that we know want to live in an urban setting, it's critically important to be able to activate downtown and the Riverfront," Deegan said.
Change doesn't happen overnight, Deegan said, but she wants to make sure new projects and programs get off the ground quickly.
"We need to start moving with more urgency, and I think that when we're bringing people into the process, we're explaining to them why we're doing what we're doing, and then we can move with urgency," Deegan explained. "I think it gives people confidence in Jacksonville."
Along with downtown development, Deegan made health a priority on her agenda.
Since the start of her Get Covered Jax program in November 2023, there has been a 34% increase in the number of people with health insurance in the city.
"That saves us money across the board," Deegan noted. "But, it also makes sure that we have functioning citizens who can be out there, you know, getting jobs and helping to grow our city."
RELATED: 'We have scored a touchdown': Jacksonville City Council approves Stadium of the Future deal
Challenges and Tragedies
Deegan's first year in office was not without its challenges and tragedies.
Almost two months after taking office, three people were killed in a racist mass shooting at a Dollar General in the New Town neighborhood. Deegan said that community is still recovering and more investments must be made.
"I think it's just another scar that has to heal," said Deegan. "But, it only really heals if we take steps to bring that community along. And I think that's the work."
Jacksonville also saw a setback to the revitalization of the Sports and Entertainment District when the $60 million RISE Doro apartment buildings went up in flames. Deegan said the city is committed to ensuring those apartments are rebuilt.
Crime Concerns
A concern for many people living in Jacksonville is crime – specifically among the younger generations.
Deegan said her River City Readers program is one of the initiatives she's launched to address the issue.
"We know if we can create more literate young people, that they will be more successful adults and they're less likely to get involved in the criminal justice system," Deegan said.
Dedicated to Inclusivity
While a lot of the focus remains on the growth and development of Jacksonville, Deegan said she's most proud of the work she has done to bring every community in the city to the table.
"The ultimate goal for me, not only of uniting this city but of making sure that those disinvested communities, those communities that were left behind and consolidation are brought in, to make sure that they had the same opportunities as everybody else in our community," Deegan explained.
During Black History Month, Deegan announced the establishment of the city's first African American Advisory Board, spotlighting the goal of city leaders to provide equal opportunity and representation to all community members. The board joined already-existing boards aimed at bridging the gap between Jacksonville's Hispanic and Asian populations with city government. Deegan also proclaimed February as Black History Month in Jacksonville.
READ MORE: Mayor: African American Advisory Board aims to foster equal opportunity for all community members
Just last week, Deegan became the first mayor to proclaim June as LGBTQ+ Pride Month in Jacksonville. She also announced the creation of an LGBTQ+ advisory board to act as a liaison between community members with her office and city council.
What About the Jail?
First Coast News asked Deegan about the future of the Duval County jail, another possible billion-dollar project for the city.
Deegan said city leaders are currently crunching the numbers and looking at who will design and build the new jail and where it will go. Deegan noted that the jail is a big priority for her and the city this year.