They will find that our city finances have been managed responsibly and prudently, which is how we've held the number of non-public safety employees flat despite having one of the fastest growing populations in the country and the lowest millage rate by far of any major Florida city. It's also why the three major ratings agencies have issued a top tier AA+ or AA rating for the second year in a row.

The work to create a more efficient government has been underway since Mayor Deegan's first day in office. The time it takes for businesses to receive a permit has been cut in half, and more than 284,000 staff hours have been saved through our 904LEAN initiative that drives process improvements.

We welcome any financial evaluation not driven by partisanship or political gamesmanship."

Please find a copy of the letter attached.