JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Members of the Special Committee on Duval DOGE led by Jacksonville City Council Member Ron Salem, announced on Thursday what they are calling a major breakthrough in government accountability efforts: nearly $17 million in unspent funds.
In a news release, the group said the unspent funds were identified from completed capital projects across various city departments.
Recommended Videos
But the mayor’s office had a different take.
The Deegan administration said it has been working for over a year and a half to close out dozens of completed capital projects that are still on the books.
“These significant cost savings have already been realized,” the administration said in an emailed statement. “Once again, the DOGE committee is playing catch-up, engaging in a performative and duplicative action while Mayor Deegan has been leading since Day One on government efficiency.”
The DOGE committee said the “discovery” comes after weeks of intensive analysis and oversight. The group was created by City Council President Randy White to review operations, spending practices and financial stewardship throughout local government.
The group said the unspent balances were originally allocated for infrastructure, facility and recreational projects and work has been completed.
“This is a clear example of what happens when we take a closer look at how our tax dollars are being managed,” Salem said. “Through smart governance and oversight, our City Council Committee has identified real dollars that can now be put to better use for the people of Jacksonville.”
DOG said the nearly $17 million in recovered funds will undergo additional review to ensure compliance with the original funding restrictions and to determine appropriate reallocation options.
The Special Committee on Duval DOGE was established to analyze recent growth in city departments and programs, evaluate services for potential savings and consider implementing budget adjustments while being mindful of service impacts.
The committee is tasked with delivering a final report by June 23, 2025. The Committee also has an email address where the community at large can send in their ideas, thoughts or information directly to the members of the committee. The email is duvaldoge@coj.net.
For more information or to access the committee’s resources, visit the official webpage.
