Steps on the Jacksonville Journey are already being made.
Click here to read Florida-Times Union writer Mark Woods' Feb. 22 column on a Public Relations Subcommittee action item.
Mayor's Charge to the Jacksonville Journey Public Relations Subcommittee
We know first-hand the effect violent crime is having on our community. We have watched in the courtroom, the classroom and the community as young people head down a path that leads to one side or another of a tragic criminal equation. We have seen the devastating effect of violent crime on families, friends and neighbors. And we are deeply concerned not only about the individuals involved, but about the implications this trend has for our city's future.
The time has come for us to take action to prevent Jacksonville's story of hope, promise and surmounting the odds from becoming a tale of hopelessness, violence and economic stagnation. It is an enormous challenge, but the answer is the same one that has always brought us success:
we must act together, and we must act now. We recognize that an enhanced law enforcement presence is a big part of the solution, but there must be more.
Accordingly, I'm asking you to join with me and others throughout the community in an effort to not just stem, but also to reverse the tide of violence that threatens our children, our families and our future. We will divide this effort among some of our city's best hearts and minds, enlist the help of others, and work to mobilize our entire city to do what needs to be done.
Your work on the public relations subcommittee is not to handle the mechanics of events and announcements, although I would ask that you assist as requested in this regard. Rather, it is to think of – and implement – innovative and successful ways to draw the community into this effort on a grassroots level.
I am asking you to help to get the word out, to engage the public, and to help us refine and target the message of "act together, act now" and galvanize our citizens to become involved. We must find some nontraditional ways to get the word out about programs and initiatives that we know can have an impact.
For more information on The Jacksonville Journey, call (904) 630-CITY or click on the links to the left.