JACKSONVILLE, FL — Tonight, the Jacksonville City Council Republicans were forced to punt on their misguided plan to cut the city’s millage rate after failing to secure enough votes in the absence of Councilman Chris Miller. While the current millage rate remains in place for now, Republican leadership has already signaled its intent to push the measure again in two weeks when Miller returns.

This attempted tax cut has faced broad opposition from across Jacksonville. Our police and fire unions — the very first responders who put their lives on the line for us — have urged Council not to pursue this reckless rollback, warning it threatens public safety investments and future staffing. The Civic Council and community leaders have joined them, speaking out against a cut that would jeopardize essential city services in exchange for just $1–$2 a month in so-called “relief” for homeowners, while renters would get nothing.

Daniel Henry, Chair of the Duval County Democratic Party, issued the following statement:

“Republicans on City Council had a choice tonight: stand with first responders, civic leaders, and Jacksonville families — or continue to follow political marching orders. Instead of leading, they chose to delay, hoping for a different outcome in two weeks. But let’s be clear: this tax cut doesn’t help working families, and it certainly doesn’t make our city safer or stronger.

Our firefighters and police officers know the truth. Our civic leaders know the truth. The people of Jacksonville know the truth. Cutting the millage rate is a political stunt that takes dollars out of public safety, housing, and healthcare to hand out pennies in so-called relief.

Jacksonville deserves better. Democrats will continue to stand with the people who keep this city safe, healthy, and moving forward — not with politicians playing games with our future.”