JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan kicked off her first town hall series of the year at Legends Center, where people could ask questions about her budget priorities. 

It was a packed house, with dozens of people eager to voice their concerns and hopes for Jacksonville’s future.

There was a wide range of issues discussed. Some brought up funding for the Jacksonville’s Sheriff’s Office and a hope for other resources on the streets.

Others, asked whether she will carry out President Trump’s deportation plan. Deegan told the crowd she’ll follow the law as long as it’s constitutional. 

Among the crowd, Jacksonville resident, John Woiche, shared his concern on helping people who are homeless. 

“We need to make sure that we take care of our citizens,” Woiche told First Coast News. “How can we have children in this cold weather and on the street.”

Woiche says it’s a big need and he hopes the mayor will triple her budget and bring forward new initiatives to help the growing population.

Deegan just wants to give the public an opportunity to voice their concerns.

“We need you,” she told the crowd.

The mayor launched a transparency dashboard, so people can understand the city’s budgeting process. 

Looking ahead, there are five other budget town halls in Jacksonville. Below you can find more information:
 
Tuesday, February 4th
Ed White High School, 1700 Old Middleburg Rd N, Jacksonville, FL 32210
6:00 – 7:30 PM
 
Wednesday, February 5th
Beaches Watch Meeting at Beaches Branch Library, 600 3rd St, Neptune Beach, FL 32266
7:00 – 8:00 PM
 
Tuesday, February 18th
Atlantic Coast High School, 9735 R G Skinner Pkwy, Jacksonville, FL 32256
6:00 – 7:30 PM
 
Tuesday, March 4th
Riverside High School, 1200 McDuff Ave S, Jacksonville, FL 32205
6:00 – 7:30 PM
 
Tuesday, March 11th
First Coast High School, 590 Duval Station Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32218
6:00 – 7:30 PM