Council members exited during the debate on contentious amendments aimed at halting funding for abortion, DEI initiatives, and undocumented immigrants.
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — A Jacksonville City Council meeting extended into the early hours of Wednesday as tensions rose during prolonged discussions about the proposed city budget and tax rates.
At one point, four council members — Rahman Johnson, Jimmy Peluso, JuCoby Pittman, and Reggie Gaffney — walked out of the chambers in protest.
The move came during discussion of a series of proposals known as the “Big Beautiful Amendments,” introduced by Councilman Rory Diamond.
Councilman Jimmy Peluso was among those who left the meeting.
“This isn’t an effective budget. Securing only 11 votes shows it isn’t the comprehensive plan our city and county require, reflecting broad consensus,” stated Peluso. “Currently, City Council members ignore the need for consensus, attempting to craft something divisive and counterproductive.”
He added that the walkout was meant to make a point.
“I believe my actions were justified. We aim to emphasize that our involvement is essential and the process should be inclusive,” added Peluso.
Diamond’s amendments proposed stopping city funds from being used for immigrants without legal authorization, abortion-related services, and diversity, equity, and inclusion campaigns.
He pushed back strongly against criticism of his proposals.
“Four members acted immaturely by avoiding the vote. We moved to prohibit funding for DEI, abortion services, and unauthorized immigrants, mirroring Jacksonville residents’ preferences. They didn’t prevail, so they behaved childishly and left,” Diamond remarked.
Diamond also argued his amendments will return later this month for a final vote.
“I hope these folks can accept that they’re gonna lose the votes right so they’re gonna lose or not have the votes to take my Miss out. They don’t have the votes to stop at mileage cut and so when they lose those votes, I hope they can just accept gracefully, but if not, then I’ll go to Tallahassee,” said Diamond.
Veteran Councilmember, Matt Carlucci serving his 18th year, spoke with First Coast News about last night’s division.
“Jacksonville moves best when we’re moving together. We didn’t move together so much last night,” said Carlucci, “Forget about politics, if you make a decision that might seem unpopular but it’s the right one eventually people will see that.”
Terrance Freeman, another longtime Councilman, said it’s time for the political theatrics to end. “Either agree to agree or agree to disagree but I believe it is time for all of this to stop and us to put our focus on working on behalf of the people.”
Public Research Opinion Lab Faculty Director, Michael Binder said it’s unusual for a City Council to argue over issues like DEI, immigration and abortion when discussing the budget.
“These are the type of political battles that are often reserved for Tallahassee or really Washington DC. Generally speaking, local government doesn’t get this animated,” said Binder.
“We’re not gonna govern this city not on my watch with Washington culture wars,” said Johnson Tuesday night.
With a final vote on the city’s budget just two weeks away, questions remain about how civil proceedings will be and if Council will be able to come together.
“Everybody should think of this one question when we’re making votes,” Carlucci said. “What is best for Jacksonville?”
As of now, nothing is final until the full council votes on the budget and related items on Sept.23 at City Hall.
