I’ve been living in Jacksonville since 2018, after moving from the Northeast, and I have deeply entrenched myself in the city’s film community. Working as an intern in the Film and Television Office of Jacksonville with Film Commissioner Todd Roobin, and as an associate producer with Academy Award-nominated director Mark Mori, I’ve seen firsthand how a vibrant film environment can flourish. That’s why I am urging the community to support Ordinance 2025-0720.

Jacksonville has a rich history as a filmmaking hub. In the early 1900s, our city was known as the “Winter Film Capital of the World,” with more than 30 film studios operating here. Later, major productions like G.I. Jane, The Devil’s Advocate, and Lonely Hearts brought jobs and visibility to our community. But when Florida eliminated statewide film incentives, productions went elsewhere - most notably to Georgia, which is now a multi-billion-dollar film hub. Meanwhile, Jacksonville has the talent, the landscapes, and the history, but without competitive incentives, we’ve been missing out on opportunities that could benefit our city’s economy and creative community.

Right now, Jacksonville City Council is considering Ordinance 2025-0720, introduced by Council Member Rahman Johnson. This ordinance proposes a $400,000 transfer from the city’s debt management fund to the Office of Economic Development, specifically for the initiative code-named "Project T."

According to the City’s Office of Economic Development, if this project comes to Jacksonville, it is projected to:

• Spend $3 million locally
• Book around 2,400 hotel room nights
• Employ about 100 Jacksonville residents
• Generate an estimated $7 return for every $1 invested

While this ordinance is tied to one proposed production, its impact could go far beyond a single project. Supporting film incentives today could open the door for more productions in the future, bringing sustained opportunities for local workers, small businesses, and Jacksonville’s creative community.

The infusion of film incentives will set a foundation for long-term, sustainable growth in our local economy. Cities like Atlanta and New Orleans have already witnessed the positive impacts of similar measures, transforming themselves into thriving production hubs. By approving Ordinance 2025-0720, we choose to position Jacksonville as a hub for creativity and innovation in the Southeastern United States.

Let’s create a roaring film scene, support our local talent, and boost our city’s economy. Join me in backing Ordinance 2025-0720. Sign this petition, and let’s bring these opportunities home to Jacksonville.