City of Jacksonville - Department News RSS

Mayor Brown's Business Builder

Wed, 09 May 2012 15:54:13 GMT

Session two of Mayor Brown’s Business builder will take place May 17 and 18 at the Prime Osborn Convention Center. This two-day session will focus on connecting small business owners and entrepreneurs with the resources they need to be successful and creating opportunities for small business growth here on the First Coast.

“It is encouraging to see so many people and organizations come together for the good of our small business economy," said Mayor Brown. "I’m proud to present, free of charge, this public-private partnership to help entrepreneurs better understand from experts what it really takes to get access to capital and credit, develop strategy and compete in today’s complex economy. Small businesses are vital to help put Jacksonville back to work and build a stronger sense of community in our neighborhoods.”

2012 Jacksonville Jazz Festival Full Lineup Announced

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 13:40:00 GMT

Mayor Alvin Brown and the City of Jacksonville are proud to announce the latest additions and full lineup of performances for the 2012 Jacksonville Jazz Festival. The annual tradition will be held Thursday, May 24 through Sunday, May 27 in the heart of downtown Jacksonville. The festival is free and open to the public unless otherwise noted.

“The Jacksonville Jazz Festival promises world-class performances for families and friends throughout Memorial Day weekend,” said Mayor Alvin Brown. “Come join us for the music and take some time to explore Downtown at its best.”

Mayor Launches Jobs for Veterans Initiative

Fri, 20 Apr 2012 14:22:40 GMT

Service comes through public-private partnership at no additional cost to taxpayers

Mayor Alvin Brown is launching Jobs for Veterans, a one-stop service to help military veterans transition to civilian life by connecting them with educational opportunities and job leads at veteran-friendly employers.

“In today’s economy, companies need confidence and a strong work ethic. They could use that never-give-up attitude and that sense of ingenuity that so many of our returning veterans can offer,” said the mayor. “Jobs for Veterans will be good for all of the brave men and women who have so proudly served in defense of our nation.”

Governor Signs Bill to Boost Mayor's Economic Development Initiatives

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 16:48:14 GMT

Gives city the authority to alter or amend Jacksonville Economic Development Commission (JEDC)

Last December, the Jacksonville City Council overwhelmingly passed Mayor Brown’s government reform initiative, the first major reorganization of city government in 20 years. That legislation reformed the city’s economic development structure to make it directly accountable to the mayor and includes all city functions that could enhance the mission of creating jobs.

In January 2012, Mayor Brown and the City Council sought the approval of the Florida Legislature to alter or amend the Jacksonville Economic Development Commission (JEDC) as a necessary step to evolve the city’s economic development efforts. Both houses of the Legislature unanimously provided that authority. Today, Governor Rick Scott signed the bill – CS/HB 1253 – which provided that authority.

City Issues Air Quality Advisory: Elevated Levels of Particulate Matter are Projected

Mon, 09 Apr 2012 14:52:53 GMT

The City of Jacksonville’s Neighborhoods Department is issuing an air quality advisory today in response to smoke from fires currently burning in the area. Elevated levels of particulate matter from smoke in neighboring counties may impact parts of Jacksonville today, as winds blow smoke into the area.

Children, the elderly and sensitive individuals should take steps to avoid exposure by staying inside or refraining from strenuous outdoor activity. If exercising outdoors, substituting less vigorous exercise (a walk instead of a jog, for example) can be helpful. In addition, outdoor activities should be planned for times when particulate levels are lower.

Mayor Brown Unveils Economic Growth Initiatives

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 14:48:13 GMT

Legislation would reform city policy to create jobs, revitalize Downtown

Mayor Alvin Brown appeared today with leading members of the Jacksonville business community to unveil legislation aimed at reforming the city’s economic development structure and policy to help create jobs and revitalize Downtown.

“One of my priorities as Mayor is to partner with the business community to create jobs and enhance economic growth,” said Mayor Brown. “This legislation will make Jacksonville more competitive by speeding the process of bringing high wage jobs and strong economic development to Jacksonville, while also helping to reinvigorate our Downtown.”

Mayor Brown Welcomes 7-Eleven to Jacksonville

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 12:02:08 GMT

7-Eleven, Inc. has announced plans to open at least 80 new stores in Jacksonville by 2015 with up to 20 of the new locations operating this year.

Jacksonville Mayor Alvin Brown welcomed 7-Eleven President and CEO Joe DePinto, Governor Rick Scott and Sleiman Enterprises President and CEO Toney Sleiman at The Jacksonville Landing Wednesday, where a group of local leaders applauded news of the company’s growth in the River City. The celebration included 7-Eleven Slurpee drinks as part of a spread of refreshments.

Jacksonville Named by IBM as Smarter Cities Challenge Grant Recipient for 2012

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 15:14:23 GMT

Mayor Alvin Brown announced today that IBM has selected Jacksonville to receive an IBM Smarter Cities Challenge grant. The grant provides Jacksonville with access to IBM's top experts to analyze and recommend ways the city can become an even better place in which to live and work.

“This is about turning our downtown’s potential into a vibrant reality that will attract major employers, create jobs, draw new residents and serve as a focal point of our city’s unique identity,” said Mayor Brown. “Being the recipient of the IBM Smarter Cities Challenge grant places us among an elite number of national and international cities. This public-private partnership is possible because of IBM’s confidence in the talent, vision and energy of Jacksonville’s leaders to revitalize downtown.”

100th Art Walk is a milestone for downtown Jacksonville

Fri, 09 Mar 2012 12:45:03 GMT

First Wednesday Art Walk, a popular downtown walkable art tour, hit a major milestone this month—its 100th event. The free event organized by Downtown Vision Inc. has drawn thousands of people to the urban core on the first Wednesday of every month since 2003, rain or shine.

Mayor Alvin Brown congratulated staff, artists, volunteers, and visitors for making the event a huge success every month.

“Art Walk shines a well-deserved spotlight on everything that makes our urban center a focal point for everyone in Northeast Florida to enjoy,” said Mayor Brown.

Mayor Brown’s College Student Aid Workshops

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 11:47:30 GMT

The City of Jacksonville and the Indo-U.S. Chamber of Commerce of Northeast Florida are partnering together to assist aspiring college students in completing their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at no cost to students or taxpayers.

There will be seven workshops at locations throughout Jacksonville starting March 31. Trained volunteers will help students complete and file FAFSA applications, a necessary step in the college entrance process.

“The FAFSA can be a challenging part of the college experience. We’re fortunate in Jacksonville to have so many people who want to use their talents for the good of helping others,” said Mayor Brown. “There is a strong relationship between college education and workforce success as well as a city’s quality of life. This workshop does not just give advice to students. They will leave knowing their FAFSA is done.”

To learn more, or to sign up for a workshop, visit www.coj.net/FAFSAworkshops.

Secretary of the Navy Visits Jacksonville

Tue, 28 Feb 2012 16:01:56 GMT

Mayor Alvin Brown welcomed Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus to City Hall on Tuesday. Recently, the Navy released its fiscal year 2013 budget which allocated more ships and sailors to Naval Station Mayport.

“It’s a vote of confidence in our city,” said Mayor Brown. “And it is going to boost the number of personnel in Jacksonville – that’s good for our economy.”

The secretary was greeted in the atrium of City Hall by JROTC cadets from Mandarin High School.

U.S. Conference of Mayors

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 18:31:36 GMT

Last Friday and Saturday, Mayor Alvin Brown hosted at least 70 local leaders including mayors, port directors and trade specialists are here in Jacksonville to develop a national agenda that expands exports, improves infrastructure and modernizes ports. Mayor Brown is Chair of U.S. Conference of Mayor’s Metro Exports and Ports Task Force.

"If you're serious about creating jobs, you have to be serious about expanding exports," USCM President and Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa said. "Ninety-five percent of the world's consumers are outside of the United States. To help businesses get their products from cities across the United States to markets around the world, we need to invest in our roads, bridges, ports, and rail systems."

Released at the meeting the report, entitled U.S. Metro Economies: Exports in the Next Decade, projects that exports will outpace imports by 2020, growing an average eight percent annually. A copy of the report and its key findings can be obtained at www.usmayors.org.

Learn more at the Mayor's Blog.

The Jacksonville Jazz Festival

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 07:25:08 GMT

The Jacksonville Jazz Festival will be held on Thursday, May 24 to Sunday, May 27.

“The Jacksonville Jazz Festival helps to promote a greater quality of life by drawing thousands of people to our Downtown,” said Mayor Brown. “This is the perfect opportunity for families and groups of friends to gather, take in performances, enjoy a stroll along our treasured St. Johns River and feel the heartbeat of our city’s urban center.”

Some of this year’s confirmed performers include Sonny Rollins; Chick Corea, Stanley Clarke and Lenny White Trio; Patti Austin with the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra; Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue; Poncho Sanchez and his Latin Jazz Band featuring Terence Blanchard; and Karrin Allyson.

Additional performers and festival details will continue to be announced in the coming months through the festival’s Facebook page, Twitter and JaxJazzFest.com.

Moe's Southwest Grill Lacrosse Classic

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 10:11:28 GMT

Come enjoy the sport of lacrosse on Sunday, Feb. 19 at EverBank Field as the city and Jacksonville University Athletics present the 2012 Moe’s Southwest Grill Lacrosse Classic! Ticket specials are available by calling (800) 745-3000 or at ticketmaster.com.

Click here for coupons and specials.

Mayor Brown to Host Business Builder Summit

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 15:35:46 GMT

Mayor Alvin Brown will host his Business Builder summit, a program designed to help small businesses gain a deeper understanding of what it takes to succeed and to help them learn about gaining access to capital and credit.

The first in a series of seminars will be held Feb. 7 at the Prime F. Osborn III Convention Center. Watch the live-stream from the event, starting at 12:00 p.m.

Participants will hear from U.S. Small Business Administration Administrator Karen G. Mills and Tom and Sue Bennett of First Oklahoma Bank. The objective is to better align the business ideas of Jacksonville residents with the capital and credit opportunities needed to turn those ideas into reality.

Mayor Brown's Business Builder

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 07:49:51 GMT

Did you know that the Jacksonville region is home to more than 80,000 businesses that each operate with fewer than 10 employees? Together, these businesses supply Northeast Florida with almost 230,000 jobs.

Small business is a major focus for Mayor Alvin Brown. The mayor is inviting Jacksonville’s entrepreneurs to attend Mayor Brown’s Business Builder, a free program that’s being done in partnership with the U.S. Small Business Administration.

The first in a series of seminars will be held Feb. 7 at the Prime F. Osborn III Convention Center. For registration, click here.

Mayor Alvin Brown welcomes Dr. Bernice A. King to Jacksonville

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 15:41:20 GMT

Dr. Bernice A. King, the youngest daughter of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was the guest of honor at Friday’s 25th annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Breakfast.

Dr. King spoke to a sellout audience at the Prime F. Osborn III Convention Center about the need for education and a better sense of personal responsibility.

Mayor Brown also stressed education while encouraging participants to volunteer for Mayor’s Mentors, a program he unveiled in December to pair highly qualified, dedicated adults with Jacksonville’s young people.

The mayor said Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. built a legacy that has the power to inspire everyone to encourage younger generations to overcome challenges and do their best in school and in life.

Congratulations from Mayor Alvin Brown

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 16:40:48 GMT

Robert E. Lee High School one of several schools to improve

Mayor Alvin Brown paid a visit to Robert E. Lee High School Wednesday to congratulate students, faculty and staff on their success boosting school performance.

The school has improved from a D rating to a B rating. Principal Dr. Denise Hall led the mayor on a tour so that he could encourage students to continue working for good grades. A highlight of the tour, the mayor was shown the school’s robotics program. B.A.E. Systems donated $5,000 to help run the program.

Mayor Brown Signs Reform Legislation

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 15:08:40 GMT

Mayor Alvin Brown has signed legislation setting his government reform plan officially into motion.

“This is about taxpayers and our future as a city,” said the mayor. “By streamlining city government, we are building a more sturdy foundation for Jacksonville to target economic development and take this city to the next level.”

Mayor Alvin Brown Announces River Access Initiative

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 14:01:59 GMT

Designates 12 sites for non-motorized watercraft

Mayor Alvin Brown today designated 12 park sites for kayakers, canoeist, paddle boarders, sail boarders and other water enthusiasts to access the St. Johns River and its tributaries.

The sites are part of the mayor’s initiative to create more active recreational opportunities along the St. Johns River and in parks.

“The St. Johns River is one of our greatest resources, and these launches will enable residents and visitors to get out on the water and enjoy it,” Brown said. “As more and more people experience our river, they will begin to see Jacksonville as a destination.”

Mayor Brown's Reform Plan Approved by City Council

Thu, 15 Dec 2011 14:32:28 GMT

The legislative framework for Mayor Alvin Brown’s government reform plan has gained City Council’s approval.

The bill (2011-0732), was passed by a 16-1 Council vote on Tuesday, Dec. 13, 2011. The bill passed after much review by City Council and a citizens’ review panel.

What passed Tuesday marked phase one of the reform plan. In the second phase, the mayor will work closely with department heads to examine the new structure of government for maximum savings and efficiency measures.

Mayor Alvin Brown Welcomes $10 Million Grant for Port

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 08:44:57 GMT

Decision Comes Less than a Week After Brown Meets with Transportation Secretary

Less than a week after he met with U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood to advocate for the project, Mayor Alvin Brown tonight applauded the federal government’s decision to provide a $10 million grant to JAXPORT.

The Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) grant will supply $10 million to help build an intermodal container transfer facility. This enables freight-loading directly between rail and ships, a development that will help curb truck traffic on Heckscher Drive while increasing efficiency at Jacksonville’s waterfront

Animal Care & Protective Services Named Florida's Outstanding Animal Control Agency of the Year

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 13:50:59 GMT

Florida Animal Control Association also recognized ACPS volunteer as top in state

The Florida Animal Control Association, the professional association of animal care and control personnel in Florida, named the City of Jacksonville’s Animal Care & Protective Services division as the Outstanding Animal Control Agency of the Year for Florida. ACPS was recognized out of more than 130 agencies as a statewide leader in animal programs and services.

Mayor Brown Announces Mayor's Mentors Public-Private Partnership

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 14:20:13 GMT

Mayor Calls On Citizens to Give One Hour a Week to Mentor Jacksonville Students

Jacksonville Mayor Alvin Brown announced today the launch of the Mayor’s Mentors, a public-private partnership to train and place 500 new school-based mentors with Duval County Public School students by April 1 at no cost to taxpayers. The Mayor’s goal is to recruit, train and match mentors with Duval County Public School students to increase on-time, next grade promotion and graduation rates. For more information on becoming a Mayor’s Mentor, the public may call United Way’s 2-1-1 or visit www.coj.net/mayorsmentors.

Mayor Brown Welcomes New Jaguars Owner Shahid Khan to Jacksonville

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 14:57:45 GMT

Mayor Alvin Brown welcomes the new Jacksonville Jaguars owner, Mr. Shahid Khan, to the community. Following the announcement of the sale of the Jaguars, Mayor Brown sent a welcome letter to Mr. Khan, expressing his pleasure for Khan’s commitment to Jacksonville and the Jaguars.

“As mayor, I take seriously my duty to support the Jaguars,” said Brown in his letter. “The City of Jacksonville and the Jacksonville Jaguars have long been partners in making this a great NFL city. I look forward to continuing that partnership with you as the new team owner.”

Mayor Brown Encourages Participation in Jaguars "Ultimate TEALgate Party" Events

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 10:00:02 GMT

Game-day activities to take place downtown prior to Jaguars’ Monday Night Football game on Dec. 5

Mayor Alvin Brown joined Touchdown Jacksonville Team Teal Commissioner Tony Boselli and Chair of Game Day Experience Lenny Curry in announcing the Ultimate TEALgate Party for the Jacksonville Jaguars Monday Night Football game on Dec. 5.

Mayor Brown has proclaimed Monday, Dec. 5, 2011 as “Ultimate TEALgate Day” in support of the Jacksonville Jaguars’ Monday Night Football game against the San Diego Chargers. To create a fun environment for all to enjoy, the Jaguars and others will host festivities at various locations throughout downtown.

City's Senior Centers Support Troops

Wed, 16 Nov 2011 16:43:17 GMT

The City of Jacksonville’s Adult Services Division, in partnership with Mission Harvest America, Inc., is sending care packages to troops in Afghanistan during the holidays.

Seniors from 19 senior centers have collected toiletries, snacks, phone calling cards, batteries, pens, stationery, crossword puzzles, books, sports and entertainment games, greeting cards and other miscellaneous items in appreciation of our military overseas. Collectively, more than 300 care packages will be distributed to soldiers by Christmas.

Mayor Brown Presents Reform Plan to City Council

Tue, 08 Nov 2011 16:51:41 GMT

Mayor Alvin Brown unveiled his reform plan for City Council’s review on Tuesday. The reform plan is an effort to streamline operations to deliver city services in the most efficient, effective manner possible.

The reform plan promotes economic development and quality of life by concentrating on cost-reductions and public-private partnerships that will boost value for taxpayers.

City of Jacksonville and Keep Jacksonville Beautiful Commission Win Two National Awards

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 14:05:14 GMT

Recognized as a Top Affiliate and for Cigarette Litter Prevention Program

For the second consecutive year, the City of Jacksonville and the Keep Jacksonville Beautiful Commission have been recognized nationally by Keep America Beautiful in two award categories. This year, KJB earned a distinguished service citation in the Affiliate Award category and second place for its Cigarette Litter Prevention Program. This recognition builds on KJB’s first-place wins in the same categories in 2010. KAB will present the awards to KJB at the 58th Annual National Conference at the end of November. The conference will be in New Orleans and affiliates nationwide will attend.

Thank you fans!

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 08:40:24 GMT

It was a great day for football in Jacksonville as the Florida Gators and Georgia Bulldogs squared off in the 89th annual Florida vs. Georgia Football Classic.

The event packed EverBank field with 82,000 fans as a total of 200,000 fans flocked to the downtown area.

Jacksonville has been neutral ground for this premier college football rivalry since 1933.

Click here for some game day images of Mayor Alvin Brown.

Florida vs. Georgia Football Classic

Fri, 28 Oct 2011 08:59:34 GMT

Welcome back fans!

The Florida vs. Georgia Football Classic is Saturday, Oct. 29. Kickoff is at 3:30 p.m.

A sold-out EverBank Field will host 82,000 fans and the event, in total, draws more than 200,000 fans to the downtown area.

Jacksonville has been neutral ground for this premier college football rivalry since 1933. The event has grown over the years and carries an estimated economic impact of $80 million.

Mayor Brown and Business Leaders to Promote Northeast Florida in Brazil

Fri, 21 Oct 2011 09:08:12 GMT

Encouraging Future Job Growth Is Key Focus in Delegation Trip

A delegation of Jacksonville business leaders, including Mayor Alvin Brown and JAXUSA Partnership President Jerry Mallot, will join Gov. Rick Scott in Sao Paulo, Brazil for a five-day economic development mission to promote Northeast Florida and help attract new business.

The mission, organized by Enterprise Florida, provides an opportunity to interact and build relationships with international companies and industry leaders who may consider expanding or relocating to the region.

Mayor Brown Celebrates First 100 Days in Office: Takes Significant Steps Toward Major Goals of Administration

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 07:18:43 GMT

Mayor Alvin Brown is celebrating his first 100 days in office as Jacksonville’s chief executive – 100 days that saw the administration take significant steps forward on many of the mayor’s goals.

“When I took office, I said that I would achieve a balanced budget without new taxes or fees, streamline government so that it is more effective and efficient, promote economic development, and work to help our public schools,” said Mayor Brown. “In just over three months, we have made progress in each of those areas. Much work remains to be done, but I’m pleased that we are closer to moving Jacksonville to the next level.”

Mayor Explores Tech Job Prospects Through Panel Discussion

Tue, 11 Oct 2011 09:30:40 GMT

Florida’s high-tech companies provide 292,000 jobs paying good wages out of a total payroll of $19.9 billion.

Mayor Alvin Brown hosted a panel discussion during the 10th Annual Florida Black Expo to explore how the expansion of broadband Internet can help put people to work.

8th Annual Art in the Park

Tue, 04 Oct 2011 10:00:07 GMT

Please join us for JaxParks’ 8th Annual Art in the Park on Saturday, Oct. 8 on the Northbank Riverwalk. Activities run from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. along the Riverwalk between the Jacksonville Landing and CSX. Our partners include the Times-Union Center for the Performing Arts, Jacksonville Landing, Jacksonville Public Library, MOSH, Cummer Museum and Cathedral Arts Project. The event offers free interactive art and entertainment for the entire family. We hope to see you there.

"Doing Business With Puerto Rico" Seminar

Fri, 30 Sep 2011 10:43:52 GMT

Mayor Brown visits with Sister Cities Association San Juan Vice President Ellia Pico during the Doing Business with Puerto Rico seminar held at UNF where business opportunities where presented to boost trade between Jacksonville and Puerto Rico.

Charlie Barth Honored at Film Industry Reception

Fri, 23 Sep 2011 14:04:24 GMT

At the 11th Annual Jacksonville Film Industry Reception, hosted by the city’s Film and Television office, Charlie Barth (photo, first row, center) was honored with the Film Legacy Award that recognizes his achievements and contributions to the local film industry.

Saft Plant Opening a Boon to Jacksonville Economy

Fri, 16 Sep 2011 11:46:34 GMT

Saft, the world’s leading designer and manufacturer of high-tech industrial batteries, inaugurated the world’s most advanced automated lithium-ion battery factory at the Cecil Commerce Center on the Jacksonville Westside.

“Having a renowned international company such as Saft choose Jacksonville is a major step in building the economy of tomorrow,” said Jacksonville Mayor Alvin Brown at the Friday opening. “The new plant gives us high-tech jobs to help put Jacksonville back to work and is a great example of the good that can come from the public and private sectors working together.”

City Issues Air Quality Advisory

Wed, 14 Sep 2011 07:21:18 GMT

The City of Jacksonville’s Environmental and Compliance Department issued an air quality alert Tuesday, Sept. 13, due to an excess of the National Ambient Air Quality Standard for fine particulate matter. Elevated levels of particulate matter are a result of the wildfires that are burning in adjacent counties.

Jaguars Open NFL Season with No TV Blackout

Fri, 09 Sep 2011 14:48:50 GMT

It really is Go Time, isnt’ it? The Jacksonville Jaguars began their regular season Sunday, Sept. 11, against the Tennessee Titans with no television blackout.

And there's more Jaguars excitement!

For a limited time, you can purchase the TealDeals certificate book, a $3,000 value of gift certificates from local businesses, for only $50. Previously, only Jaguars season ticket owners could purchase this certificate book so be sure to take advantage of this generous offer. This offer can only be purchased on doubletakedeals.com.

Mayor Brown: 'No Blackouts'

Wed, 07 Sep 2011 07:27:13 GMT

Mayor Alvin Brown led a crowd of roughly 1,500 business and community leaders on a chant of “no blackouts” during the Jacksonville Regional Chamber of Commerce’s annual Jaguars Kickoff Luncheon.

“We want to sell out every game,” said Mayor Brown. “My goal is to channel all of our resources to ensure this city and the Jaguars are as successful as possible. We want to be sure that when the Jaguars win, North Florida wins.”

Are You Ready? Jacksonville Hurricane and Disaster Guide 2011

Mon, 22 Aug 2011 17:21:37 GMT

The guide has advice on what to do before, during and after a storm, important phone numbers and a disaster supply check list.

Make sure your family and your business have a hurricane and disaster plan in place. You can find the Florida Division of Emergency Management’s Business Disaster Plan here.

Executive Order: Mayor Brown Creates Education Commissioner’s Office

Fri, 19 Aug 2011 12:11:28 GMT

Mayor Alvin Brown issued an executive order naming the first Education Commissioner for the City of Jacksonville.

The office is designed to serve as a bridge between City Hall and Duval County Public Schools with a mission to increase graduation rates and better prepare Jacksonville’s youths for the 21st Century job market. The office will have no executive powers over the school system but will serve a crucial supportive function to raise private money and rally community support at a time the schools are facing cutbacks.

DCHD Issues Mosquito-Borne Illness Alert

Thu, 11 Aug 2011 07:20:50 GMT

The Duval County Health Department (DCHD) continues its mosquito-borne illness alert for Duval County. Additional human cases of West Nile Virus (WNV) have been confirmed and there is a heightened concern that additional residents will become ill. Duval County has eight confirmed cases of WNV in 2011.

Jacksonville Nets Professional Lacrosse Team

Thu, 04 Aug 2011 15:32:11 GMT

Jacksonville Mayor Alvin Brown welcomed an announcement Thursday that Jacksonville was selected as a site for a team in the new North American Lacrosse League (NALL) that begins play in January 2012. "We are thrilled to welcome the North American Lacrosse League to Jacksonville," he said. "I have long touted Jacksonville's attraction as a sports hub, and lacrosse will be a wonderful addition to the multiple sports franchises we already have in our city."

Mayor Brown Visits Small Business Owners Near the City's San Marco Streetscape Project

Fri, 29 Jul 2011 14:24:20 GMT

Mayor Alvin Brown, accompanied by Councilmember Lori Boyer and San Marco business owners, today toured the city’s San Marco Streetscape project and six area small businesses.

Mayor Brown Names Additional Members of Administration

Fri, 08 Jul 2011 15:14:09 GMT

Jacksonville Mayor Alvin Brown today announced additional members of his administration, bolstering the team of high-caliber professionals previously announced.
(l-r) Mayor Alvin Brown, Donald "Donnie" Horner Jr., Michelle Barth, Karen Bowling, Jessica Deal, Mario Rubio, Angela Spears and Mia Jones.

Mayor Alvin Brown Names Key Members of Administration

Thu, 30 Jun 2011 16:55:38 GMT

Jacksonville Mayor Alvin Brown named key members of his administration, announcing a team of high-caliber professionals that represent one of the most diverse management teams in city history.

African American Athletics Exhibit Debuts at the Ritz

Wed, 29 Jun 2011 13:35:11 GMT

The Ritz Theatre and Museum will host a press conference to announce the debut of its newest exhibit, “More Than a Game: African American Sports in Jacksonville, 1900-1975.”

City Issues Air Quality Advisory

Tue, 21 Jun 2011 14:40:52 GMT

The City of Jacksonville’s Environmental and Compliance Department is issuing an air quality advisory today in response to smoke from fires currently burning in the area. Elevated levels of particulate matter from the smoke have been detected and an open burning ban remains in effect.

Friendship Fountain Grand Reopening Set for Saturday

Tue, 14 Jun 2011 09:37:10 GMT

Jacksonville Mayor John Peyton will join City Council members Don Redman and Warren Jones, and other officials to celebrate the reopening of Friendship Fountain Park, 9 – 11 a.m., Saturday, June 18. The event will feature a dedication ceremony, entertainment and family-friendly activities, in conjunction with the Museum of Science & History (MOSH).

Countywide Reading Initiative Launched

Tue, 07 Jun 2011 15:42:49 GMT

Mayor John Peyton helped launch "Read It Forward Jacksonville" at Matthew Gilbert Middle School, Tuesday, June 7. A reading initiative aimed at raising the literacy rate for students throughout Duval County, the project will involve partnerships between the Duval County School Board, the City of Jacksonville and business and community leaders to help teach Jacksonville's children about the importance of reading.

Memorial Day Ceremonies Honor Fallen Warriors

Tue, 31 May 2011 07:27:45 GMT

Jacksonville Mayor John Peyton was joined by U.S. Rep. Corrine Brown, U.S. Rep. Ander Crenshaw, Lt. Gov. Jennifer Carroll and a host of state, city and military leaders Monday, May 30, at Jacksonville’s Memorial Day observance ceremony honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of the nation.

Jacksonville Jazz Festival Downtown May 26-29

Thu, 26 May 2011 14:54:52 GMT

Spend your Memorial Day weekend in the heart of downtown with incredible jazz performers like Herbie Hancock, Natalie Cole and Eddie Palmieri. Other highlights of this year's Jacksonville Jazz Festival include Art in the Heart Downtown, Wine Down Brew Town Tasting Experience, Generation Next Youth Talent Competition, 'Round Midnight Jazz Jams, Sunday Jazz Brunch, a Jazz Jamboree through the festival streets and more.

Mayoral Transition Begins

Fri, 20 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Promising to deliver the “most complete, most transparent transition” ever, Mayor John Peyton stood on the steps of City Hall and welcomed his successor, Mayor-Elect Alvin Brown. Mayor Peyton and his senior staff spent all morning with Brown’s family – wife Santhea and sons Joshua and Jordan – and the new mayor’s transition team.

Mayor Peyton Secures $1 Billion Pension Deal

Wed, 11 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT

After nearly 18 months of discussions with the Police and Fire Pension Fund, Mayor John Peyton and Peter Sleiman, chairman of the Police and Fire Pension Fund’s (PFPF) Special Committee on Pension Reform, announced today a pension reform plan that will save approximately $700 million over the next 35 years. The proposal will be presented to the full PFPF Board for consideration next Wednesday and requires approval by the Jacksonville City Council.

Summer Time Fun for Children and Youth!

Fri, 06 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Activites and opportunities for fun with friends will be available across the city again this year for Jacksonville kids. Click here for information on city-sponsored summer activities and camps for young people.

Blueprint for Prosperity Releases 2010 Annual Report

Thu, 05 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The City of Jacksonville's Blueprint for Prosperity committee has released its 2010 Blueprint Annual Report. The document provides a snapshot of the city's progress as measured against set benchmarks in nine key areas: education, infrastructure, leadership, economic development, quality of life, and racial opportunity and harmony.

Jacksonville Jazz Festival Announces Performers

Wed, 04 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Natalie Cole, Herbie Hancock, Marcus Miller and David Sanborn are among the jazz stars who will perform at the four-day jazz festival downtown, May 26-29.

Speciality License Plate to Support St. Johns River Programs

Mon, 06 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT

A specialty license plate dedicated to the St. Johns River will be available for purchase at local tax collectors offices in early December. The specialty license plates cost $25 annually above the standard Florida license plate, and the non-profit organization St. Johns River Alliance, Inc., will receive funding from the proceeds. The organization will also administer grants to other qualifying organizations.