Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Jacksonville public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
11 issues in water utilities
JEA meeting transparency charter amendment
A proposed charter amendment would force JEA to televise or live-stream every meeting of its governing body and post recordings online within three business days. It aims to make the city-owned utility's decision-making more visible to the public.
Utility assistance for JEA customers (deferred)
A $2.3 million plan to help Duval households with JEA bills — up to $1,200 per household through United Way's City to Neighbor program — was pushed back two cycles, despite an emergency request.
2027 FIND Project Review and Prioritization
Jacksonville gets matching grants from the Florida Inland Navigation District for boat ramps, docks, and waterway projects. The subcommittee picked which projects to request funding for in 2027 — directly shaping what boaters and anglers get built next year.
JEA Unbilled Water Capacity Fees and Oversight
Council auditors are investigating whether JEA failed to collect millions in capacity fees in recent years. Auditors say they cannot complete their work without interviewing former JEA attorney Regina Ross, whose availability is currently blocked by Office of General Counsel privilege claims.
Solid Waste Collection Contract Extension
The committee discussed solid waste user fee increases from $27 to $29.50, commodity price drops in recyclables, and trail ridge landfill operations.
Solid Waste Fee Increases and Landfill Finances
The committee discussed solid waste user fee increases from $27 to $29.50, commodity price drops in recyclables, and trail ridge landfill operations.
Fulton Cut Transmission Line Clearance Project
JEA is raising power lines across the St. Johns River by 50 feet to allow larger cargo ships from JAXPORT to pass. The $117 million project is on budget, utilizes advanced helicopter stringing, and is expected to be operational by late 2026.
Underground Utility Safety and 811 Awareness
The council recognized August 11, 2026, as "Sunshine 811 Day" to urge residents and contractors to call before digging, aiming to reduce utility strikes in Florida.
JEA $1.5B Combined Cycle Power Plant Project
Committee members raised concerns over JEA's $350 million investment in a combined-cycle natural gas facility at the former St. Johns River Power Park site before receiving final approval from the Public Service Commission.
Third-Party Utility Billing Concerns
A resident voiced concerns during public comment regarding a lack of regulation over third-party water utility billing by landlords after receiving an unexpected $1,200 bill.
Hogan's Creek Property Acquisition and Eminent Domain
The city is moving forward with eminent domain and $12.6 million in funding to acquire 17 commercial parcels along Hogan's Creek for drainage and environmental improvements.