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NewsFlorida PoliticsMay 4, 2026Florida

Mayor Deegan Criticizes Multiple Investigations into JEA Utility

Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan is pushing back against ongoing investigations into the city-owned utility, JEA, by the City Council, the State Attorney, and the Attorney General. Deegan argues these probes threaten the city's consolidated government structure and are driven by hyperpartisanship.

JEAJacksonville City CouncilUtility GovernanceLocal Politics
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Why It Matters

The investigations involve potential changes to JEA's leadership, workplace policies, and fee collection, which could impact utility operations and the governance structure of Jacksonville's public services.

Key Facts

  • The Jacksonville City Council is investigating JEA regarding workplace culture and uncollected capacity fees from commercial customers.
  • The 4th Circuit State Attorney and the Attorney General are investigating the termination of JEA's lobbying contract with Ballard Partners.
  • Mayor Donna Deegan opposes a proposal to directly elect JEA board members, arguing it would increase political influence.
  • JEA is governed by a seven-person appointed board intended to be independent of elected officials.
  • Council President Kevin Carrico previously requested a JEA board member resign, citing a favor owed to the member's employer.
  • Mayor Deegan maintains that her involvement in JEA affairs is a fulfillment of her campaign promise to protect the utility.

Who's Mentioned

personJames Uthmeier“Attorney General”otherBoys and Girls Club of Northeast FloridaotherJacksonville City CouncilotherDonna DeeganorganizationJacksonville City Council“Investigating JEA workplace culture and fees”otherMelissa NelsonotherBallard PartnerspersonDonna Deegan“Mayor of Jacksonville”organizationJEA“Jacksonville's public utility”otherJames UthmeierpersonVickie Cavey“JEA CEO”organizationBoys and Girls Club of Northeast Florida“Employer of a JEA board member”otherJEApersonMelissa Nelson“4th Circuit State Attorney”otherKevin Carricoother4th Circuit State AttorneypersonKevin Carrico“Jacksonville City Council President”otherAttorney General’s OfficeorganizationBallard Partners“Lobbying firm with a terminated contract”