11/11/2025
Dear Residents, Supporters and Local Businesses,
Thank you and please accept my sincere gratitude for your continued support and active participation in our local government. Particularly, thanks to those who attend council meetings and remain engaged in civic matters. Like you, I am committed to preserving the small-town character and sense of community that defines Jacksonville Beach.
One year ago today, this hallowed Veterans Day, I was sworn in. Below is a summary of key actions I have taken over the past year to advocate for fiscal responsibility, controlled growth, and the protection of our community's quality of life and natural beauty.
Fiscal Responsibility: Opposed the current budget due to 25 million dollars of expenditures exceeding our revenues; of the people I spoke with none support spending in this manner.
Land Development Code (LDC): After consulting with residents, voted against amendments that increase density in many residential areas and reduce lot setbacks, which accommodate developers at the expense of increased urban crowding, flooding risks on adjacent properties, and resident privacy.
Open Space Preservation: Opposed rezoning recreational and open-space land for residential use, allowing loss of trees and green space with no meaningful benefit to residents and setting a bad precedent for future development.
Urban Trails Project: After extensive resident feedback highlighting adverse property impacts, in concert with colleagues, successfully advocated for downsizing the $30 million project.
Downtown Development: Voted against rezoning a commercial property that would allow balconies to overhang public sidewalks—like many residents, I have concerns about safety and no benefit for our city.
Public Works Efficiency: Opposed a $6.7 million project citing excessive cost.
Employee Compensation: Supported and secured equitable salary increases for city employees and the police department and I thank my colleagues who were aligned.
Transparency in Governance: Championed and won approval for council agendas to be published seven days prior to meetings, ensuring adequate time for research and public input.
Short-Term Rentals: Remain committed to implementing regulations and enforceable penalties for non-compliant short-term vacation rental operators.
Tree Canopy Protection: Continue to advocate for preserving street, sidewalk, open space and park tree coverage to maintain our city’s natural aesthetic.
ADA/Beach Access: After hearing from many folks who need clear and safe paths to our beautiful beach, I have fought for improved walkovers and more ADA access.
55 Height Amendment: Stand against changing the our Charter regarding height increases.
Saving Our Schools: As a long time educator and current substitute in our local elementary schools, I continue to engage the Superintendent and school board to impress upon them the vital importance of our local schools to the fabric of our community.
Your ongoing engagement is vital. Please feel free to contact me at [email protected] or follow updates on Bruce Wouters or my phone number is 904-270-1617. I promise to reply promptly.
Thank you for your trust and partnership.
Sincerely,
Bruce Wouters
