The JCAC believes the best way to tackle public safety in our city is by prioritizing our most historically neglected areas through direct investment along with prioritizing legislation that will address the root causes of crime. We know that increased policing does not keep our community safe, however, increased opportunity, development, livable wages, and increased public services provide the stability needed for Jacksonville to flourish and address the root causes of most crime.

Currently JSO Sheriff TK Waters is asking for additional funding, asking for a budget increase which would bring their total budget share to $597,719,652 according to Jacksonville City Council’s auditor. Over the last decade, JSO’s budget has increased every year except one. In fact, since 2013 the Sheriff’s Office budget increased by $200 million and next year’s budget request calls for over $35 million more. JSO is asking for the creation of a new jail with reported costs of well over 250 million dollars. What would it look like if those dollars went to our communities instead?