Mayor Donna Deegan joined us on today's First Coast Connect. In a show we titled "Ask the Mayor," it was the community's opportunity to voice their concerns directly to the mayor herself.
Among the topics discussed:
- Plans for allocating the $26 million designated by the City Council for her task force programs and initiative. Priorities include addressing homelessness, implementing Wi-Fi in city parks, establishing a Veterans community center, promoting literacy and more.
- Virtual health care for uninsured residents.
- The settlement with the family of Florida A&M student Jamee Johnson, who was shot by a Jacksonville police officer.
- The city's strategies for building a resilient Jacksonville.
- Scrutiny on no-bid Contracts.
- Insights into how she fosters relationships with our city leadership.
Black Kids
Black kids is an American indie rock back formed right here in the heart of Jacksonville. They joined us today to talk about their journey from Jacksonville's indie music scene to international stages, reflecting on the early days and also to tell us about their upcoming performance at Intuition Ale Works.
Freed to Run
Freed to Run is a mission providing legal aid for underprivileged communities in northeastern Florida. The six-day marathon relay series, organized by attorney Michael Freed of the Gunster law firm, is scheduled Nov. 17 and 18. The effort is dedicated to raising funds for a Shelter for Elders endowment and supporting Jacksonville Area Legal Aid in addressing housing issues faced by vulnerable seniors. The ultimate aim is to permanently fund a dedicated position for this crucial work.
We got more details about Freed to Run from Freed and Jim Kowalski, president of Jacksonville Area Legal Aid.