The City of Jacksonville's Finance Committee convened on August 14, 2025, for Budget Hearing #3, focusing on direct contracts and funding allocations for various programs, particularly those involving the United Way of Northeast Florida. The meeting began with a review of the budgeted amount for the United Way's 2-1-1 program, which was initially set at $400,000. However, following discussions, the committee voted to reduce the appropriation to $250,000, aligning it with a grant request from the organization. This decision was supported by several council members who emphasized the importance of the 2-1-1 service as a critical resource for citizens seeking assistance.

The committee also addressed the United Way's 9-8-8 suicide and crisis intervention program, which is budgeted at $200,000. Melanie Pats, the president and CEO of United Way Northeast Florida, provided insights into the program's operations and its significance in the community. She highlighted the increasing call volume and the need for additional funding to enhance service delivery. Council members expressed their support for the program while also raising concerns about the funding process, suggesting that future requests should go through the Public Service Grant (PSG) process rather than direct contracts.

A contentious topic arose regarding a proposed art installation in front of the courthouse, which has sparked debate among council members and community leaders. Chief Judge Lance Day voiced his concerns about the appropriateness of the installation, citing potential security risks and maintenance issues. He emphasized the need for prioritizing security measures over aesthetic projects, especially in light of budget constraints. The committee discussed the possibility of pausing the project and reassessing its necessity, with several members agreeing that public safety should take precedence.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to further investigate the funding processes and the implications of the proposed art installation. The committee plans to reconvene to finalize budget decisions and address any outstanding issues before the upcoming budget night. Overall, the discussions underscored the importance of balancing community needs with fiscal responsibility and the necessity of transparent funding processes for essential services.