Mikes on Mic

Welcome back to Mikes On Mic!

Today we are again featuring Nat Ford, the CEO of the Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA).

With an extensive background of working in major markets like San Francisco, Atlanta, and New York City, Nat Ford shares his experience in managing various transit modes—from streetcars to autonomous vehicles.

Join us as we explore Jacksonville's transformation in public transit, from the challenges of implementing light rail systems to the innovative steps being taken with the U2C project and autonomous vehicle technology.

We discuss the role of the JTA in providing diverse transportation options, the Mayport Ferry, the Emerald Trail  and the ambitious Mobility Vision Plan 2050.

With insights into regional rail initiatives, federal grants, and the economic impact of new manufacturing facilities, this episode is packed with forward-thinking mobility solutions aimed at enhancing the quality of life for Jacksonville's growing population.

So enjoy this conversation about the future of transit in Jacksonville and how strategic planning, bold leadership, and community collaboration are paving the way for a smarter, more connected city.

Enjoy!

Tune in to the show on your favorite Podcasting platform and on MikesOnMic.com

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mikes-on-mic/id1697258731

Spotify link: https://open.spotify.com/show/1osbkLvqreSJPXmfaubY1M?si=yVwAAnw1TmSSzZnZ3vM8sA

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Youtube Channel: http://youtube.com/@mikesonmic

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Enjoy!

Welcome back to Mikes on Mic!

Today we dive into the pivotal debates surrounding Jacksonville’s 2024-25 Budget!

Tensions arise as we explore partisan influences on salary adjustments, the contentious funding decisions for the Mayor's Office of Diversity and Inclusion, and the fate of the $56 million park fund tied to the Jaguars deal.

Discover how affordable housing and homelessness are pivotal battlegrounds, and the powerful role reserves play in this financial chess game.

Learn about the strategic moves being considered, including augmentations to the 5-year capital improvements plan and the monty negotiations surrounding public-private partnerships.

Don’t miss our critical examination of the political dynamics at play, the impact of increasing costs, and the city's revenue strategy through new housing developments.

With an upcoming crucial vote by the city council, this episode is packed with insights and behind-the-scenes discussions that will shape Jacksonville’s future.

Enjoy!

#JacksonvilleBudget #MayorDeegan #CityCouncil #AffordableHousing #HomelessnessCrisis #CityReserves #PoliticalDebate #CommunityProjects

Tune in to the show on your favorite Podcasting platform and on MikesOnMic.com

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mikes-on-mic/id1697258731

Spotify link: https://open.spotify.com/show/1osbkLvqreSJPXmfaubY1M?si=yVwAAnw1TmSSzZnZ3vM8sA

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Youtube Channel: http://youtube.com/@mikesonmic

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Enjoy!

The Mikes On Mic crew is taking the week off in observance of the Labor Day holiday. 

Enjoy this encore presentation of the podcast discussing Councilman Rory Diamond and the discussion about the governor’s new state slogan, “Welcome to the Free State of Florida”

Tune in to the show in your favorite Podcasting Plaform.

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mikes-on-mic/id1697258731

Spotify link:  https://open.spotify.com/show/1osbkLvqreSJPXmfaubY1M?si=yVwAAnw1TmSSzZnZ3vM8sA

Connect with us on Social: 

Youtube Channel: http://youtube.com/@mikesonmic 

Facebook Page link: http://facebook.com/mikesonmic

Tune in to the show on your favorite Podcasting platform and on MikesOnMic.com

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mikes-on-mic/id1697258731

Spotify link: https://open.spotify.com/show/1osbkLvqreSJPXmfaubY1M?si=yVwAAnw1TmSSzZnZ3vM8sA

Connect with us on Social:

Youtube Channel: http://youtube.com/@mikesonmic

Facebook Page link: http://facebook.com/mikesonmic

Enjoy!

Welcome to Mikes on Mic!

On this week’s episode we delve into Jacksonville's politics focusing on the recent primary election and its implications for the upcoming general election.

What might be the impact of the potential abortion and marijuana constitutional amendment proposals have on voter turnout?

We also discuss the surprising outcomes of school board races, the impact of Governor DeSantis' endorsements, and the apparent continued tension between Gov. DeSantis and former President Trump.

Plus, we’ll get an inside look at Andrew Pantazi’s new data tools tracking legislative actions.

Tune in for an in-depth conversation on these critical issues impacting our community!

Tune in to the show on your favorite Podcasting platform and on MikesOnMic.com

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mikes-on-mic/id1697258731

Spotify link: https://open.spotify.com/show/1osbkLvqreSJPXmfaubY1M?si=yVwAAnw1TmSSzZnZ3vM8sA

Connect with us on Social:

Youtube Channel: http://youtube.com/@mikesonmic

Facebook Page link: http://facebook.com/mikesonmic

Enjoy!

Welcome back to Mikes on Mike! 

Today, we discuss political tensions in Jacksonville. We'll have some interesting clips from Rory Diamond, Michael Corrigan, and Major Donna Deegan.

First, we examine Council Member Rory Diamond's controversial actions. He's had notable clashes with the mayor over budget and policies.

Next, we address Jacksonville's identity crisis. Should the city return to its old slogan, "The Bold New City of the South"?

Finally, the Mikes share stories about childhood dreams and career paths.

This episode, filled with insights and lively talks, is sure to inform and entertain.

So, tune in now!

Tune in to the show on your favorite Podcasting platform and on MikesOnMic.com

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mikes-on-mic/id1697258731

Spotify link: https://open.spotify.com/show/1osbkLvqreSJPXmfaubY1M?si=yVwAAnw1TmSSzZnZ3vM8sA

Connect with us on Social:

Youtube Channel: http://youtube.com/@mikesonmic

Facebook Page link: http://facebook.com/mikesonmic

Enjoy!

Welcome to another engaging episode of Mikes on Mic!

Today, we discuss some controversial and engaging local topics.

Mark Woods, a respected columnist, shares his insights on these (including the new Florida signs) and the unexpected reactions they have sparked across the state.

Today we also talk about:

- The origins and impact of Florida’s new state welcome signs

- The battle between state mandates and local government control

Like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated with our latest episodes! Leave your thoughts in the comments below – we love hearing from you!”

#FloridaPolitics #FreeStateOfFlorida #GovernorDeSantis #LocalGovernment #MediaShift #FringeFestival #Podcast #PoliticalDiscussion #Jacksonville Mike

#FloridaPolitics #FreeStateOfFlorida #GovernorDeSantis #LocalGovernment #MediaShift #FringeFestival #Podcast #PoliticalDiscussion #Jacksonville

Tune in to the show on your favorite Podcasting platform and on MikesOnMic.com

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mikes-on-mic/id1697258731

Spotify link: https://open.spotify.com/show/1osbkLvqreSJPXmfaubY1M?si=yVwAAnw1TmSSzZnZ3vM8sA

Connect with us on Social:

Youtube Channel: http://youtube.com/@mikesonmic

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Enjoy!

Behind the JEA Sale: Mike Hightower, Mike Tolbert, and Mike Miller's Insights

Welcome back to Mikes on Mic!

Today we are again talking about the attempted sale of JEA, Jacksonville's public utility service and the four-year prison sentence handed down on former JEA CEO Aaron Zahn. We'll be talking about Steve Busey's year-long investigation that reviewed over 600,000 documents, ultimately pointing to former Mayor Lenny Curry's significant involvement in the plan to sell JEA.

We’ll also discuss the inspiring stories of Our Jax members and other community heroes who united to prevent the sale of JEA, including then-council president Scott Wilson, Ethics Officer Carla Miller, and prominent media figures who unveiled the story and kept the community informed.

00:00 JEA board turmoil and potential sale.
05:11 Paul McElroy was a popular professional. City hall corruption and secretive meetings.
07:17 JEA PR campaign, Zahn scare tactics, Curry.
10:07 Mayor dodges indictment, implicated in JEA scandal.
16:22 Ad got lots of statewide attention and press.
20:02 Group representing lineman worked to right wrong.
22:34 Thank God, nightmare over, JEA progress.
24:26 Hightower lost, discussed mayor's role and budget.
29:02 Al Kennard pivotal in municipal problem-solving reputation.
31:52 Expressing gratitude, looking forward to next week.

Tune in to the show on your favorite Podcasting platform and on MikesOnMic.com

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mikes-on-mic/id1697258731

Spotify link: https://open.spotify.com/show/1osbkLvqreSJPXmfaubY1M?si=yVwAAnw1TmSSzZnZ3vM8sA

Connect with us on Social:

Youtube Channel: http://youtube.com/@mikesonmic

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Enjoy!

Welcome back to Mikes On Mic.

Today break down the transformative $1.9 billion budget for Jacksonville presented by Mayor Donna Deegan. 

Explore how investments in infrastructure, police, and fire services are set to bring long-term returns, and learn about the aggressive push to secure federal funding for key projects like the Emerald Trail and the out east project. 

We'll discuss crucial topics like workforce development, homelessness, and affordable housing, alongside budget challenges and fiscal responsibility. 

Plus, get insights into healthcare improvements, insured rates, telehealth, and the catalytic Southbank and Pearl Street projects poised to reshape downtown. 

Don't miss today''s conversation about the future of Jacksonville!

#Budget2024 #Jacksonville #Infrastructure #FederalFunding #CommunityDevelopment #Healthcare #Telehealth #AffordableHousing

Tune in to the show on your favorite Podcasting platform and on MikesOnMic.com

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mikes-on-mic/id1697258731

Spotify link: https://open.spotify.com/show/1osbkLvqreSJPXmfaubY1M?si=yVwAAnw1TmSSzZnZ3vM8sA

Connect with us on Social:

Youtube Channel: http://youtube.com/@mikesonmic

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Enjoy!

First, there's the upcoming debate in the city council over the Mayor’s $1.9 billion budget proposal. 

Next, we're looking at the fight over the state ballot initiatives legalizing recreational marijuana and abortion rights. 

We’ll talk about these topics and others with our guest columnist AG Gancarski. 

Tune in for a closer look at the forces shaping Jacksonville and Florida politics and what's next for the Sunshine State.

Tune in to the show on your favorite Podcasting platform and on MikesOnMic.com

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mikes-on-mic/id1697258731

Spotify link: https://open.spotify.com/show/1osbkLvqreSJPXmfaubY1M?si=yVwAAnw1TmSSzZnZ3vM8sA

Connect with us on Social:

Youtube Channel: http://youtube.com/@mikesonmic

Facebook Page link: http://facebook.com/mikesonmic

Enjoy!

Welcome back to Mikes On Mic.

 We're dissecting the erosion of home rule and ethics laws, the concerning right-wing influence, and the limitations being placed on local ethics commissions. 

We explore the chilling effect of requiring personal knowledge of ethics violations and the elimination of anonymous complaints, which hinder whistleblowers. 

Tune in for a critical discussion on the future of local media, the loss of impactful journalists, and the shifting landscape of accountability in Florida's government.

 We also touch on the potential implications of upcoming referendums on recreational marijuana and abortion rights, along with Governor DeSantis’ campaigns. 

Don't miss our insights on the JEA scandal, taxpayer money misuse, and predictions for Aaron Zahn's sentencing. 

Plus, get ready for future episodes where we breakdown Jacksonville's new budget. 

It's a packed episode you won't want to miss! 

Tune in to the show on your favorite Podcasting platform and on MikesOnMic.com

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mikes-on-mic/id1697258731

Spotify link: https://open.spotify.com/show/1osbkLvqreSJPXmfaubY1M?si=yVwAAnw1TmSSzZnZ3vM8sA

Connect with us on Social:

Youtube Channel: http://youtube.com/@mikesonmic

Facebook Page link: http://facebook.com/mikesonmic

Enjoy!