Earlier today I, along with Council President Richard Clark, announced the city’s plan to actively engage citizens in this year’s budget process.  Through the launch of a new Web site, dedicated solely to the budget process, and the creation of community budget workshops, it is my hope that citizens find these tools helpful ways to contribute to the budget conversation. Each year when we begin the conversation about our city’s budget, it is always our goal to engage a broad number of citizens and solicit their input in every step of that process.  This year, we are beginning that discussion earlier, with a greater emphasis on transparency.
Please visit the Web site at  http://www.myjaxbudget.com.  There you will find information about the budget process, the city’s revenue and expenses, along with the services that government provides and how much it costs to provide them.
As part of this effort you are also invited to attend one of six budget workshops and engage in dialogue with other citizens and city leaders about government services.  You will also be asked to provide feedback about your own priorities for government services.  With the help of Jacksonville Community Council Inc., data collected at each budget workshop will be compiled and a report highlighting the results of the workshops will be posted on the Web site.
Because seats are limited, those interested in attending the workshops must register in advance by visiting the Web site or by calling (904) 630-2747.

Through informed citizen participation, elected leaders will have a better understanding of how to prioritize spending, provide services and move the city towards a prosperous future.

Sincerely,

John Peyton

Mayor