8/7/2019 Juan Diaz Questionnaire

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Juan Diaz

1. In recent years, the mayor and City Council have used a mix of revenueincreases and cuts in expenses to balance the city budget. Do you agree? If not,what would you do differently?

I know that we are in challenging times for the city, but these are also challenging timesfor families here in Jacksonville. My preference is to evaluate the budget and identifypotential reductions in spending before raising tax rates. I would look first to ensure thatcity departments are operating as leanly as possible, and focus on non-essential cityservices in first priority for any reductions. As a Member of the City Council, that is how Iwill approach it, if we can do it without jeopardizing our quality of life and deterioratingthe level of core services due to Jacksonville residents.

2. Do you support the Jacksonville Journey? Explain your answer.

Public safety is one of my top priorities, a primary purpose of government.When we have murder rates that lead the state, we need to think outside of the box tolook for solutions. I support the Jacksonville Journey because it supports safeneighborhoods, and safe neighborhoods can deliver a greater likelihood of economicopportunity. I think this year’s murder rate, which was one of the lowest in years, isproof that we can address the crime issue successfully.

3. What endorsements have you received?

I have received the support of many, well-respected business leaders of both large andsmall businesses in Jacksonville, and I continue to add supporters daily. I am optimisticthat I will receive the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce (JaxBiz) endorsement, theFirst Coast Manufacturer’s Association (FCMA) endorsement, and many other associated business endorsements throughout the city. I am also seeking theendorsements of numerous local elected officials, and will announce thoseendorsements at the appropriate time.

4. How much civic activity do you perform outside work?

I have been a very engaged community member during my time in Jacksonville.(See my biography for more information)

5. How do you intend to comply with Florida’s public records and government inthe sunshine laws? If you saw an elected official breaking the sunshine law, whatwould you do?

8/7/2019 Juan Diaz Questionnaire

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As an attorney, I observe and respect our state’s laws. I have been subject to, andcomplied with, such laws as a member of city commissions, and will continue to do soas a member of the Council. Further, it is critical for aCouncil member to gain the trust of the people that he serves. That means walking thewalk - not just talking the talk. I will comply with all laws and would certainly follow

appropriate protocols if I become aware of any violations of those laws.

6. What can you do to help support the clean-up of the St. Johns River?

I think the St Johns River Caucus, which was formed by the Legislature, demonstrateshow this is an important issue. Promoting a healthy river is about preserving our greatquality of life, both recreationally and economically.

7. How can you become engaged in the city’s high murder, infant mortality andsuicide rates?

I've seen and heard of these problems at a surface level through my involvement inLeadership Jacksonville, the Public Service Grant Council, and other communitygroups. As an At-Large candidate, I will work with theSheriffs Office as well as community groups in the areas of town that face the mostchallenges so I can become more engaged and develop a greater understanding of theissues. A safe, healthy community will be key to the city’s future growth prospects.

8. Has consolidation been a good or bad deal for Jacksonville? Please explainyour answer.

I have no doubt that consolidated government is the optimal form of city government.The evidence is clear - counties like Miami-Dade and Broward have countygovernments and over 30 city governments each. These layers of bureaucracy donothing to enhance the quality of life for an area’s residents, nor to create anenvironment that promotes ease of doing business. I firmly believe it is good for voters,and for business, to have one entity accountable for community decision-making.

What is the role of a council member? As mini-mayor? Or as legislator?

The City Council is the legislative branch of the City of Jacksonville’s governmentstructure. A Council member should acts as a legislator evaluating issues in thecommunity, or existing laws, and determining legislative remedies or modifications to bemade, reviewing city expenditures, and other legislative responsibilities. I do, however,believe our City Council should be a strong voice that acts as a true check to theMayor.