Mayor Deegan Cleared of Misusing Taxpayer Funds During UK Trip

Mayor Donna Deegan’s Europe Trip Reviewed

A recent review found that Mayor Donna Deegan did not misuse taxpayer money during her trip to Europe. This investigation was sparked by complaints from City Councilman Terrance Freeman. He requested an audit after learning that Deegan took a personal vacation in Italy during the official trade mission to the UK.

Freeman expressed concern over Deegan supposedly skipping official duties while representing Jacksonville, raising questions about public fund usage. The Jacksonville Council Auditor’s Office examined the mayor’s trip. A draft report confirmed that no taxpayer funds were misused. It stated that the documentation provided showed proper use of funds.

Phil Perry, a spokesperson for the Mayor’s Office, highlighted the report’s findings, asserting that the expenditures in London were appropriate. He emphasized Deegan’s transparency and dedication to fostering economic growth in Jacksonville.

Council member Ron Salem remarked that the report is a draft and mentioned instances of improper use of a city procurement card. He awaits the final report for further clarity.

Details of the UK Trip

Mayor Deegan visited London from October 12 to 15 to attend the International Investment Summit. She promoted Jacksonville’s benefits to banking and fintech companies. During the trip, she met with the U.S. ambassador and attended various economic development meetings organized by JAXUSA Partnership. Following the official events, she traveled to Italy for a pre-planned personal vacation, which she paid for herself.

Freeman sought the auditor’s review shortly after the trip, questioning the legitimacy of the official visit due to Deegan’s absence from the second Jaguars game.

Findings from the Auditor’s Report

The auditor’s report detailed that the total cost of the trade mission was $22,734.46. Deegan’s hotel expenses amounted to $2,978.18, her only city-funded cost. She covered her own travel and meal costs. City staff expenses totaled $16,794.51, which included hotel stays and business meals.

The report confirmed that no additional costs arose for spouses accompanying city staff. However, it flagged improper use of the procurement card for meal charges. The mayor reimbursed $178 for these charges, which violated city policy designed to prevent double-dipping on expenses.

Salem expressed concern about these findings. He plans to work on legislation to enhance oversight of procurement card usage to protect taxpayer funds.