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Jacksonville Journey Forward Board

Legislative Authority: Ordinance 2024-635-E

Total Members: 11

Committee Duties: The Jacksonville Journey Forward Board will guide the initiative’s efforts to address the root causes of violence and crime, with a focus on prevention, intervention, and collaboration. Members of the board bring together talent and expertise from law enforcement, education, the judicial system, public health, and grassroots community advocacy. This intentional diversity reflects the program’s mission to bring together differing viewpoints and unite all corners of the community in building a safer, stronger Jacksonville.

Upcoming Meeting Dates: Meetings will be held, unless otherwise indicated, at the Ed Ball Building, 214 N. Hogan Street, Room 825. (Meeting times and locations are subject to change.)
  • June 5, 2025
  • July 17, 2025
  • August 21, 2025
  • September 18, 2025
  • October 30, 2025
  • November 20, 2025

Board Members

Name Category
James Ellout Mayor 01
W.C. Gentry Mayor 02
Vacant Mayor 03
Dr. Tes Tuason Mayor 04
LTG (ret.) Walter Piatt Council 01
Hilbert McDougal, Jr. Council 02
Stephen Zona Council 03
Betty Seabrook Burney Duval County Public Schools
Octavius Holliday State Attorney 
Bernie de la Rionda Chief Judge 
Lawrence Schmitt Jacksonville Sheriff
 

Contact Staff

Name Position Phone Email
Deborah Sibley KHA - Special Projects Manager (904) 255-4449 sibleyd@coj.net

Subcommittees

EARLY LITERACY
  • W.C. Gentry
  • Dr. Tes Tauson
  • Betty Burney - Chair
RE ENTRY
  • Lawrence Schmitt
  • LTG Walter Piatt
  • Bernie de la Rionda - Chair
JUVENILE JUSTICE
  • James Ellout - Chair
  • Steve Zona
  • Octavius Holliday
SCHOOL RELATED PROGRAMS
  • Sylvia Perry
  • James Ellout
  • Hilbert McDougal - Chair
FINANCE
  • Hilbert McDougal
  • LTG Walter Piatt – Chair
GOVERNANCE & OVERSIGHT
TBD