State officials will conduct an in-depth review of Jacksonville’s spending practices next week, citing concerns over a rise in property tax collections that outpaces inflation and population growth.
The Florida Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), in partnership with Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia and the Governor’s Office of Policy and Budget, has notified the city of a planned on-site visit August 7–8.
The team is expected to inspect City Hall and other relevant sites and data systems, requesting cooperation from city personnel.
According to the state’s letter, Jacksonville’s annual property tax collections have surged by more than $400 million since 2020—a 57% increase—despite the city lowering its millage rate in recent years.
State officials say this growing burden on property owners has significantly outpaced both inflation and population growth. “The citizens of Florida have a right to expect that their elected officials will spend the collected funds responsibly and on truly necessary programs,” the letter states.
It also notes that residents have “responded with enthusiasm” to Governor DeSantis’s directive to root out local government inefficiencies.
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The DOGE team says the review is intended to help the state better understand how Jacksonville is spending its growing revenues and to explore opportunities for improvement.
In a statement Wednesday, Mayor Donna Deegan touted the city’s fiscal management and said she welcomed the review — as long as it isn’t marred by politics.
“They will find that our city finances have been managed responsibly and prudently, which is how we’ve held the number of non-public safety employees flat despite having one of the fastest growing populations in the country and the lowest millage rate by far of any major Florida city,” Deegan said. “It’s also why the three major ratings agencies have issued a top tier AA+ or AA rating for the second year in a row.”
She added that her administration has made efficiency a top priority since day one.
“We welcome any financial evaluation not driven by partisanship or political gamesmanship,” Deegan said.
