The Neighborhoods, Community Services, Public Health and Safety Committee approved a budget amendment to renew a federal grant that funds adolescent-focused services administered by the Jacksonville Housing Authority (KHA).

Committee members discussed an amendment that increased the appropriation to include a $462,000 match from the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, raising the total appropriation to $947,000. Committee staff described the change as a correction to the appropriation schedule and said a revised exhibit would be attached to reflect the additional funds.

Sarah and Grama, representing the Jacksonville Housing Authority, told the committee the program is a renewal of a multi-year grant that has funded positions already in KHA’s workforce. “These people already work at KHA,” the representative said, explaining that one position is fully covered by the grant and another is partially covered by it. The staff member said the positions handle grant administration, subcontract management and related duties.

Council members asked whether the grant targets adolescents or adults; staff confirmed the program targets adolescents. One council member asked whether the city budget for fiscal 2025–26 already included a local match; KHA staff responded that the $85,000 match anticipated next year was already in the budget and no additional dollars were required beyond the appropriation.

After brief discussion the committee opened the ballot and approved the amended appropriation. Committee minutes record: “By direction, you have approved 20 25 2 53.”