The following day, a frustrated Curry said opponents killed the deal to settle 'political beefs' they held against him and to buoy their ambitions to run for mayor.

On Tuesday, Curry and Jaguars owner Shad Khan failed to pass a proposed deal they negotiated to develop Lot J, a mixed-use development that proponents said would transform the city's stagnant downtown and help lure the team into staying in Jacksonville past 2030, when its lease with the city expires. Last week, an investigative report commissioned by the council linked Curry to the disastrous attempt in 2019 to sell JEA, which the report described as an effort driven by a 'purposeful lack of transparency.' The failed sale, as well as other related controversies, are under investigation by the U.S. However, recent developments at City Hall provided an opportune moment to launch a change candidacy built around transparency, public input and civility. 'Jacksonville is at its best when we move together, and to do that, you've got to have a bottom-up government, a government that listens to the people.'Ĭarlucci said he announced more than two years ahead of the election because he was simply ready to make the decision. 'I think the people of Jacksonville are desperate for a new direction,' Carlucci said. Jacksonville City Councilman Matt Carlucci announced Thursday he intends to run for mayor in 2023, becoming the first candidate to enter what is expected to be a crowded race for the open seat.Ĭarlucci, a 64-year-old Republican who lives in San Marco, said he wants to lead the city in a 'new direction' that is dictated by public input and collaboration.

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