JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Jacksonville Mayor Lenny Curry offered a $1.34 billion budget Wednesday that leaves tax rates unchanged and represents nearly status quo spending after a year of extraordinary challenges from the coronavirus pandemic.
“We need to recognize what a difference a year can make,” Curry said, describing this spending plan as the result of “my steadfast commitment to being a responsible steward” of public money.
Curry proposed $240 million in big-ticket capital projects like drainage and roadwork, including about $100 million in projects in four Northside and Westside council districts – 7, 8, 9 and 10 – that he said have a history of unmet needs.
“This is a well-stated budget, on the surface,” Council President Tommy Hazouri told members during a Zoom meeting where questions were asked on line items ranging from fire stations to sex-trafficking.
The budget is barely different from the $1.37 billion general fund amount the council approved last September.
It includes money to open three new fire stations and a branch library, as well as dollars for better mental health services, removing derelict boats and other items council members had sought.
UF Heath Jacksonville hospital, the city’s key safety-net source for care of indigent patients, is budgeted to receive $30 million.