JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Together Eastside Coalition, Inc. requested that Councilman Raul Arias step down as the Chair of the Eastside Community Benefits Agreement (CBA) Committee after allegations of financial irregularities.
In a release, the organization said the request is rooted in the community’s want for trust, transparency, and accountability.
“With the Eastside community already facing significant credibility concerns from external entities, it is critical that the CBA—a once-in-a-generation opportunity for equitable development—remains free from any cloud of doubt," the release reads.
The Coalition said that its push for city oversight was intended to prevent conflicts of interest and the appearance of wrongdoing.
“The request for Councilman Arias to step down is not an assertion of guilt or wrongdoing,” the release reads. “Rather, it reflects the Coalition’s position that public perception, transparency, and accountability must be prioritized when decisions directly affect the future of the Eastside.”
Arias stepped down as Finance Committee chair in November. In a statement at the time, he said he was shifting focus to district needs, including road improvements, traffic calming and street lighting. He said he would continue serving on several committees, including those tied to the Community Benefits Agreement.
Together Eastside Coalition Vice President Latavia Harris said trust within the Eastside community was already fragile and that the allegations only deepen residents’ concerns.
“You’re dealing with an under-resourced neighborhood. So we don’t trust easily — especially someone who’s not from this community,” she said. “Arias is going through his situation, which is unfortunate, but we don’t want that situation tied to the money coming to the Eastside.”
When asked what happens if Arias refuses to step down, Harris said the coalition plans to press for answers.
“As a coalition, we’re going to ask why he wants to remain,” she said. “Why would you want to stay in a position that could jeopardize this money if there are any misrepresentations later?”
News4JAX reached out to Arias for comment. Calls went unanswered.
Harris said the CBA represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity for the Eastside, and the coalition wants to ensure the process is transparent and the funds are safe.
“This is our chance,” she said. “We can’t afford any mistakes.”
The Coalition is asking city council leadership to appoint a new chair to “reinforce the community’s trust” in the CBA process.