JTA CEO's Toll Remark Sparks Backlash Amid $39M Budget Crisis
Jacksonville Transportation Authority interim CEO Cleveland Ferguson faced criticism after mentioning tolls during a budget meeting, though the agency clarified it was not a proposal. JTA is using $30 million in gas tax revenue to cover a $39 million shortfall and has cut over 150 jobs.
Key points
- Ferguson suggested tolls as a dormant capability during a City Council meeting on the $39 million budget gap.
- JTA issued a statement clarifying that tolls were not proposed as a solution to current financial issues.
- The agency is using $30 million in gas tax revenue to pay for severance and debt, with repayment over 10 years.
- JTA has laid off over 150 employees and reduced bus routes, leading to longer wait times for riders.
- City Council and Mayor Donna Deegan rejected the idea of reinstating tolls, focusing instead on financial stabilization.
Background
JTA previously announced a $39 million budget cut for FY2027, including suspending the Skyway and Navi services. The agency's budget dropped from $178 million to $139 million, with significant savings from pausing these services. The current crisis follows a sharp revenue reduction that was not immediately disclosed, leading to questions about governance and the departure of former CEO Nat Ford.
How outlets are covering it
WJXT reported that Ferguson mentioned tolls as a possible revenue source, but JTA clarified it was not a proposal. The Cool Down focused on the $30 million gas tax deal and the impact of 150 layoffs on residents. Both sources highlighted the tension between JTA's financial maneuvers and public backlash, with WJXT emphasizing the political response and The Cool Down focusing on the human cost of job cuts.
Why it matters
The JTA budget crisis affects daily transportation for Jacksonville residents, with reduced bus routes and longer wait times. The controversy over tolls and the use of gas tax revenue highlights broader concerns about public transit funding and accountability in Florida.
What to watch
The City Council's Financial Audit and Oversight Select Committee will hold four more meetings to review JTA's finances and leadership decisions. JTA plans to provide quarterly summaries dating to 2023, and a deeper financial investigation is being arranged. The agency will continue restructuring through November 1, 2026.
- JTA CEO mentions tolls during meeting about closing $39M budget gap; JTA says it wasn’t meant as a solution News4JAX
- Mayor Deegan, JTA shut down any possibility of using tolls to fix financial crisis Yahoo
- Florida transit agency taps $30 million in gas-tax cash for debt, severance after 150 layoffs The Cool Down
- Council committees advance temporary, partial fix for JTA’s financial issues Jacksonville Daily Record
- JTA chief calls for tighter spending, new revenue The Business Journals
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