JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan is set to present her proposed budget for the upcoming fiscal year to the City Council on Monday, marking the start of a monthslong process that will determine how funds are allocated across the city’s departments.
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The mayor’s proposal, which will outline her vision for Jacksonville’s future, comes after months of preparation and public input. Earlier this year, Mayor Deegan hosted a series of town hall meetings to gather feedback from residents about their priorities for the city.
Among the most frequently discussed topics was homelessness, an issue that remains top of mind for many in the community.
Last year, Jacksonville’s general fund operating budget was just under $1.9 billion. This year, city officials expect the proposed budget to be in a similar range.
However, the mayor’s proposal is just the first step. City Council must review, amend, and approve the budget, which will involve going through the legislation line by line.
The final budget must be approved by the end of September.
In 2024, the council approved a general fund budget that was nearly $40 million less than what the mayor initially requested.
One of the most significant reductions was in funding to address homelessness. While Mayor Deegan had requested $11.2 million for a special fund to combat homelessness, the final amount was reduced to $2.2 million.
Homelessness continues to be a pressing concern for Jacksonville residents and officials alike. On Tuesday, Sheriff TK Waters addressed the issue at a public meeting, noting that while law enforcement can and will enforce new state laws such as the “No Camping Bill,” homelessness is primarily a social issue.
In response, Jacksonville Fire and Rescue has launched a program called Providing Assistance to the Homeless, which deploys a seven-person team to help those in need. City officials reported in April that the number of unsheltered people in Jacksonville had dropped by 49%.
Former chief Keith Powers recently shared a budget proposal asking the city for about $1.8 million in funding to maintain that team.
Mayor Deegan’s budget presentation will begin at 9 a.m. Monday at City Hall. Council members will have the opportunity to ask questions, and the public is encouraged to attend.
For those unable to be there in person, the presentation will be streamed live on News4JAX.com.
