The proposal, included on the commission’s consent agenda, would authorize the city manager to negotiate and execute a Joint Project Agreement with the Blueprint Intergovernmental Agency. The agreement would coordinate city utility improvements with Blueprint’s Northeast Corridor Connector: Bannerman Road Project.

Blueprint’s project calls for widening Bannerman Road from Quail Common Drive to Preservation Road, constructing medians and turn lanes between Quail Common Drive and Meridian Road, and adding multimodal transportation and stormwater improvements.

Construction is currently expected to begin in late 2027.

The road improvements will affect existing City of Tallahassee water and sewer infrastructure, requiring some utilities to be relocated or adjusted. Rather than simply move the affected infrastructure, city officials are proposing significant upgrades to the water and wastewater systems while the roadway is under construction.

The city plans to replace an existing 10-inch water main with a 12-inch main, which officials say will increase water system capacity and improve pressure in the area.

The larger portion of the investment involves wastewater infrastructure. The city plans to install a new 24-inch sewer force main as part of a broader regional wastewater system improvement.

Of the estimated $9.5 million city cost, approximately $1.5 million is associated with water improvements and $8 million with sewer improvements. The estimate includes construction, inspection, staff and project management costs.

Funding has already been identified in the city’s five-year Capital Improvement Plan through Water System Engineering and Wastewater Collection Engineering master funds and the Northeast Forcemain and Pump Station Improvements project.

Blueprint will separately pay for utility relocation work made necessary by the road construction. The city’s $9.5 million expenditure is associated with the additional water and sewer upgrades it is choosing to undertake in conjunction with the project.

According to the agenda item, combining the utility and roadway work under one construction contract is expected to improve coordination, reduce potential construction conflicts and minimize disruptions to motorists. City officials also expect the joint approach to produce cost efficiencies compared with undertaking the utility improvements separately.

The agreement between Blueprint and the city would establish responsibility and terms for both the utility relocations required by the road project and the additional utility upgrades being funded by the city.

City staff recommends approval of the agreement. Because the item is on the consent agenda, it could be approved along with other consent items without separate discussion unless a commissioner requests that it be pulled for consideration.

Matlow finished first with 14,908 votes, or 36.0%, followed by Ausley with 13,971 votes, or 33.8%. Parks captured 10,466 votes, or 25.3%, while Republican Mike Foust received 2,039 votes, or 4.9%. Together, Parks and Foust accounted for 12,505 votes — more than 30% of the votes included in the district analysis. Those voters now face a choice between Matlow, a progressive city commissioner, and Ausley, a liberal Democrat with a long history in state politics.

But there is another factor that could be just as important: November is likely to feature a substantially larger and potentially more moderate electorate than the lower-turnout August primary. That means the runoff cannot be analyzed simply by redistributing the Parks and Foust votes between Matlow and Ausley.

Parks Vote Concentrated in Districts 1 and 2

Parks’ support was particularly strong in District 1, which is predominantly African American. Parks received 3,119 votes there, nearly half of all votes cast in the district. Matlow finished second with 2,125, while Ausley received just 900.

District 2 produced another strong Parks showing. Matlow led with 1,414 votes, but Parks was close behind with 1,211. Ausley received 557.

Combined, Parks received 4,330 votes in Districts 1 and 2. Matlow received 3,539 and Ausley received only 1,457.

The numbers reveal a significant challenge for Ausley in particular. Despite finishing only 937 votes behind Matlow citywide, she received approximately 2,100 fewer votes than Matlow across those two districts. The runoff therefore puts a large bloc of voters who supported Parks back into play, especially in parts of Tallahassee where Ausley performed poorly in the primary.

Ausley Shows Strength in Districts 3 and 4

Ausley’s coalition looked much different.

District 3, which is majority middle-class Democratic, was virtually tied. Ausley received 3,690 votes compared with Matlow’s 3,652 — a difference of only 38 votes.

District 4 provided Ausley with her strongest geographic advantage. Ausley received 4,367 votes there compared with Matlow’s 2,717, giving her a 1,650-vote advantage. Parks received 1,636 and Foust received 747.

The results indicate that Ausley performed particularly well in the more conservative-leaning portions of the city despite running as a Democrat. That could become more significant in November if the general election attracts voters who skipped the August primary.

Matlow’s District 5 Advantage

Matlow’s most important geographic advantage came from District 5, the city’s largest voting bloc and an area with a substantial progressive population. Matlow received exactly 5,000 votes, compared with Ausley’s 4,457, Parks’ 2,430 and Foust’s 587.

The 543-vote Matlow advantage was not overwhelming, but the district’s size makes it particularly important. Nearly one-third of all votes in the geographic analysis came from District 5.

Matlow’s performance there demonstrates the importance of his progressive base. However, the November question is whether the political composition of the electorate changes as turnout increases.

The November Wild Card

The biggest mistake in analyzing the runoff would be to assume the 41,384 people represented in the primary district totals constitute the November electorate.

They almost certainly will not.

General elections typically attract substantially more voters than August primaries. The Leon County Supervisor of Elections lists 182,806 registered voters countywide at the 2026 primary book closing, illustrating the much larger universe of potential voters beyond those who participated in the city mayoral contest. The general election is scheduled for Nov. 3.

A larger November electorate could also have a different political composition.

Primary elections tend to disproportionately attract voters who are more politically engaged. The November general election brings federal and statewide contests onto the ballot and can draw voters who participate less consistently in local primary elections.

If that expanded electorate is more moderate than the August electorate, the change could be particularly important in a contest between a progressive candidate and a more traditional liberal Democrat.

It also means Matlow’s 36%-to-33.8% primary advantage over Ausley should not necessarily be viewed as a 2.2-point head start in November.

The electorate itself will change.

More Than 12,000 Primary Votes Are Available

Even before considering new November voters, more than 12,000 people who voted for Parks or Foust must make another choice if they vote in the mayoral runoff. Those voters come from very different portions of Tallahassee’s political landscape.

Parks’ strongest support came from predominantly African American District 1. Foust’s best percentage came from conservative-leaning District 4. Parks also attracted significant support throughout the city, including 2,430 votes in District 5 and 2,070 in District 3.

Matlow therefore enters November with an advantage among the voters who participated in August, but without anything approaching a majority coalition.

Ausley begins only 937 votes behind, with demonstrated strength among middle-class Democrats and voters in the city’s more conservative-leaning areas, but with substantial ground separating her from Matlow in Districts 1 and 2.

The primary identified each candidate’s political base. The November election will test something different: which candidate can assemble a majority from a larger and potentially different Tallahassee electorate.

With 30% of primary voters having supported someone other than Matlow or Ausley — and thousands of additional voters potentially joining the electorate in November — the runoff begins less as the second round of the August election than as a new race with a different political equation.

Beginning July 8, detectives investigated seven smash-and-grab-style burglaries that occurred throughout Tallahassee, with the most recent taking place on Aug. 2. In each case, the suspects used a large object to shatter the front glass door of a business before immediately targeting the cash register and fleeing in less than three minutes. Through investigative work, detectives determined all seven incidents were connected.

As the investigation continued, detectives collected evidence and subsequently identified the primary suspect, along with the vehicle believed to have been used during the burglary spree. Additionally, during several of the burglaries, the suspect was armed with a firearm while unlawfully entering the businesses.

The investigation ultimately led detectives to identify and locate the individuals responsible for the burglary spree. Through evidence collected during the investigation, detectives linked the suspects to the series of burglaries and recovered a firearm believed to have been used during several of the offenses. All three individuals were taken into custody without incident.

“This case is another example of the dedication and collaboration that exists across the Tallahassee Police Department,” said Chief Lawrence Revell. “From patrol officers responding to the initial calls to detectives, crime analysts and specialized investigative units working tirelessly behind the scenes, this investigation demonstrates our commitment to holding offenders accountable and protecting our business community.”

Those arrested include, Kymani Geter,16, who was charged with unarmed burglary of an unoccupied structure, armed burglary of an unoccupied structure, attempted armed burglary of an unoccupied structure, criminal mischief, and seven counts of petit theft.

Zyah Geter, 21, was charged with attempted unarmed burglary of an occupied structure, contributing to the delinquency of a minor, and petit theft.

Antwaniya Winchester, 19, was charged with attempted unarmed burglary of an occupied structure, contributing to the delinquency of a minor, and petit theft.

The candidates include Darryl Alfred Jr., Tom Derzypolski, Talethia O. Edwards, Maxwell Herrle, PJ Perez, and Norm Roche.

Political Background

While the Tallahassee City Commission seats are non-partisan, the candidates shared their personal party affiliations and political journeys during a recent forum.

Darryl Alfred said he is a registered Democrat. He mentioned being raised in a “vote blue no matter who” household but emphasized that he does not want to focus solely on party affiliations. Tom Derzypolski said he is a registered NPA (No Party Affiliation) . He stated that he chooses to be an NPA because he seeks the “best leadership for the moment” rather than following a specific party.

Norm Roche has been registered as an NPA for over a decade. His political journey included being a Democrat in his youth and then a Republican for approximately six years before deciding that parties serve themselves rather than the people.

Talethia Edwards said she is a registered Democrat and stated she has been one her entire life.

Max Herrle said he is a lifelong member of the Democratic Party, a member of the Democratic Socialists of America, and a believer in the power of unions and labor.

PJ Perez is currently a registered Democrat. He noted that he was an NPA for a long time while working as a teacher to maintain the trust of his students.

City Manager Reese Goad’s Tenure

The candidates’ evaluation of City Manager Reese Goad varied sharply. Norm Roche gave Goad an A-minus, whereas PJ Perez and Max Herrle gave him an F, with Perez citing his role in commission “divisiveness.”

Darryl Alfred assigned a D, stating residents do not feel he is accountable, while Tom Derzypolski gave a B-minus, partially crediting him for “incredible” city departments. Talethia Edwards declined to give a grade, citing a lack of direct experience working with him.

Stance on the Sale and Potential Impact of Hospital Assets

The candidates’ views on the actual transfer of assets ranged from cautious hope to direct opposition.

Norm Roche explicitly supported the idea, calling it a “good move” focused on improving healthcare delivery and costs.

Tom Derzypolski viewed the sale as a “pivot point” for the community to attract research and pharmaceutical jobs, though he remained displeased with the process.

Darryl Alfred remained hopeful because FSU has provided much for the community, and he wants to see the partnership expand healthcare access for underserved areas.

Max Herrle expressed a desire to believe in FSU’s ability to make TMH a world-class facility but emphasized that community trust must be rebuilt.

Talethia Edwards stated she is not in agreement with selling public property assets but acknowledged the vital importance of expanded healthcare services.

PJ Perez expressed fear regarding the loss of local control over healthcare and potential influence from the state government, urging that the under-insured must have a seat at the table.

The Sale of the City Golf Course

One of the most contentious issues was the city’s decision to sell the golf course to the Capital City Country Club.

Norm Roche supported the decision, arguing it was a good partnership that saved the city from

spending $30 million on upgrades and Talethia Edwards suggested that putting the property on the tax rolls could be beneficial.

Tom Derzypolski expressed strong criticism regarding the process used to sell the city golf course to the Capital City Country Club. He characterized the deal as part of a series of “backroom shenanigans” that lead the public to question city leadership and bring distrust to the process.

Darryl Alfred stated the sale “sickens” him, arguing it was rushed and undervalued while failing to respect the graves of people buried on the property.

Max Herrle asserted that the treatment of the site was racially motivated, stating that if the bodies were white, the city would never have sold the land.

PJ Perez characterized the future of the site as a “Tallahassee Mar-a-Lago” that would exclude the public.

Candidate Biographies

Darryl Alfred Jr. is campaigning on a message centered on neighborhood engagement, economic opportunity and quality-of-life improvements. A Tallahassee resident, Alfred

works as a Realtor and rideshare driver, saying those jobs have given him firsthand insight into the concerns of residents from across the city. He has described the conversations he has with passengers as informal “town halls” that shaped his decision to seek public office.

Alfred’s campaign focuses on practical solutions to issues affecting working families. He has identified affordable housing, transportation, neighborhood investment and support for local entrepreneurs among his top priorities.

Alfred has also spoken about increasing transparency at City Hall and making city government more responsive to residents. He argues that elected officials should spend more time listening to citizens before making major policy decisions.

Norm Roche brings decades of public service experience to the Seat 3 race. Roche is running after a career that includes service as a county commissioner in Pinellas County and leadership roles in business and public administration.

He entered the race saying his experience managing budgets and overseeing public services would provide a seasoned perspective on the Tallahassee City Commission. Roche has campaigned on fiscal responsibility, infrastructure investment and accountable government. He has argued that city leaders should carefully evaluate spending decisions while maintaining essential public services and investing in roads, utilities and other long-term infrastructure needs.

During candidate forums, Roche highlighted his previous elected experience, saying it has prepared

him to evaluate complex budgets, work collaboratively with colleagues and make difficult policy decisions. He has also stressed transparency and consistent communication with residents as key responsibilities of elected officials.

Tom Derzypolski brings a background in public relations and communications to the nonpartisan race. Derzypolski is the founder of a Tallahassee-based public relations firm and has said his professional experience helping organizations communicate and solve problems has prepared him for public office. When announcing his candidacy, he said he wanted to represent “real families, real challenges, and a city that works for all the people who live here.”

His campaign emphasizes government accountability, responsible growth and expanding economic opportunities. Derzypolski has said Tallahassee should focus on attracting higher-paying jobs, supporting small businesses and improving the city’s competitiveness while maintaining fiscal responsibility.

During candidate forums, Derzypolski discussed the importance of strategic economic development, including continued investment in Tallahassee International Airport as an economic asset.

Derzypolski has also stressed transparency in local government and improving communication between city leaders and residents. He says public officials should clearly explain policy decisions and provide opportunities for meaningful citizen input.

Talethia Edwards campaigns on community advocacy and neighborhood investment. Edwards has built her campaign around her experience as a community organizer and advocate. She has worked with neighborhood groups and civic organizations, saying those experiences have given her a strong understanding of the challenges facing families throughout Tallahassee.

Her campaign priorities include affordable housing, equitable economic development, improved public safety and expanding access to city services. Edwards has said local government should ensure that economic growth benefits all neighborhoods and that residents have a greater voice in decisions affecting their communities.

During candidate forums, Edwards discussed the importance of investing in neighborhoods while supporting economic development projects that create jobs and strengthen the city’s tax base. She has also emphasized collaboration between the City Commission, community organizations and residents to address housing costs, infrastructure and quality-of-life concerns.

Edwards has called for increased transparency in city government and believes stronger public engagement can improve trust between residents and elected officials.

Max Herrle campaigns on affordability, utility costs and government reform. Herrle has spent several years working in local politics and public policy. A political consultant and community advocate, Herrle has worked on campaigns for local elected officials and has been active in discussions involving neighborhood planning, transportation and city government.

Herrle’s campaign centers on making Tallahassee more affordable. He has made reducing city utility bills the cornerstone of his platform, arguing that residents face increasing financial pressures from housing, insurance and energy costs. He has proposed reviewing the city’s electric utility, reducing unnecessary spending and identifying efficiencies that could lower monthly bills for customers.

Beyond affordability, Herrle has advocated for expanding housing choices, improving pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure, and increasing transparency in city government. He has said residents should have greater input on development decisions and believes public engagement should occur before major projects are approved.

During candidate forums, Herrle emphasized that Tallahassee should pursue economic growth while ensuring neighborhoods are protected and city investments produce long-term value. He has argued that local government should prioritize fiscal responsibility alongside infrastructure improvements and environmental stewardship.

PJ Perez focuses on neighborhoods, education and smart growth. Perez, a long-time educator, is running a campaign emphasizing public service, neighborhood investment and responsible growth.

Perez has taught in Leon County schools for more than 15 years, including at SAIL High School and Tallahassee Collegiate Academy. He moved to Tallahassee to attend college and chose to remain after beginning his teaching career, saying his experiences as an educator and parent inspired him to seek public office. His campaign priorities include affordable housing, transportation, environmental sustainability and increasing opportunities for working families.

Perez has argued that Tallahassee’s growth should be guided by long-term planning that protects established neighborhoods while encouraging economic development that benefits all residents. Perez has also emphasized improving public trust in city government through greater transparency and community engagement.

During public forums, Perez has discussed balancing economic development with environmental protection and maintaining Tallahassee’s quality of life. He has expressed support for attracting new businesses while ensuring city policies remain focused on affordability and sustainable growth.

The promotions were announced during a ceremony recognizing the officers’ accomplishments and their expanded leadership responsibilities within the department.

Promoted to deputy chief were Calvin Bedenbaugh and Jeff Mahoney. Sonya Bush was promoted to major. The department also elevated five officers to the rank of captain: Charzetta Felton, Anitra Highland Simmonds, Zachary Lyne, Damon Miller Jr. and Laura Varble.

Police Chief Lawrence Revell said the promotions underscore the department’s commitment to developing future leaders.

“One of the most important responsibilities of today’s leaders is preparing future leaders,” Revell said. “These promotions reflect the depth of talent within our department and our commitment to developing leaders who are ready to guide this organization into the future. I hope every officer sees that there is a path to leadership through hard work, integrity and service.”

The promotions come as the City of Tallahassee implements a voluntary separation incentive program designed to reduce personnel costs and help address budget pressures. Approved by the City Commission in April, the program offers eligible full-time employees hired before the start of 2026 a choice between a $20,000 severance payment or 12 weeks of base pay, whichever is greater. Participants also receive city-paid health insurance through the end of the calendar year and payment for accrued leave.

City officials have said the program is intended to reduce personnel expenses by about 5% while allowing departments to reorganize and promote employees into leadership positions without reducing public services.

According to city records, 171 employees accepted the incentive package, exceeding the city’s initial projections. Those employees represented approximately 1,700 years of combined service and more than $12 million in annual salaries. The Tallahassee Police Department accounted for 21 of the voluntary departures, one of the highest totals among city departments.

Against that backdrop, the latest command staff promotions represent more than routine career advancement. They are part of a broader succession planning effort as the department replaces experienced personnel and prepares a new generation of leaders to oversee operations, mentor officers and implement departmental priorities.

Deputy chiefs serve among the department’s highest-ranking officials, assisting the chief with strategic planning and daily operations. Majors oversee major divisions or bureaus, while captains command patrol districts, investigative units and specialized teams.

The Tallahassee Police Department said the newly promoted leaders will help guide the agency through its next chapter while continuing its mission of protecting the community and maintaining public safety.

At approximately 12:03 a.m., on July 4th, TPD responded to the area after it was reported an individual had been robbed. When officers arrived, an adult male was found suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Life-saving measures were immediately attempted, but sadly the victim succumbed to his injuries.

This remains an open and active investigation. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available. Currently, there is no known ongoing threat to the public.

The vote introduced the ordinance and scheduled the first and only public hearing for Aug. 26, 2026.

The annexation request follows a previous effort involving Phipps’ property near Lake Jackson, where proposed comprehensive plan changes that would have allowed more intensive development generated significant public debate. Environmental advocates raised concerns about potential impacts near the Lake Jackson Aquatic Preserve, Carr Lake, and Mallard Pond.

City staff report that the parcels meet the geographic requirements for voluntary annexation under Florida law. Three parcels are within the City’s electric service territory, while two would continue receiving electric service from Talquin Electric Cooperative. Water and sewer services are either available or planned within the City’s five-year Capital Improvement Plan.

The properties are currently designated Rural on both the City and County future land use maps and zoning maps. No immediate rezoning would be required if the annexation is approved.

Supporters of annexation have noted that extending city services can help address infrastructure needs, while opponents have raised broader concerns about growth patterns, environmental protection, and expansion into rural areas.

The Leon County Commission is expected to review the annexation request before the City Commission’s public hearing.

The amendment, which will appear on the Nov. 3 general election ballot, would increase Florida’s homestead exemption for non-school taxes from the current $50,000 to $150,000 beginning Jan. 1, 2027, and to $250,000 beginning Jan. 1, 2028. The measure requires approval from at least 60% of voters statewide to take effect.

Property tax revenue is the primary funding source for Tallahassee’s General Fund and is projected to generate $77.7 million in Fiscal Year 2026. Those revenues fund approximately 94% of the Tallahassee Police Department budget, while also supporting parks and recreation, public infrastructure, children’s and adult services, and capital investments.

The projected losses represent a 13% reduction in taxable value in FY2028 and a 21% reduction in FY2029.

The proposal establishes a framework for future increases in homestead exemptions and directs the Legislature to create procedures that could eventually exempt all remaining assessed homestead value from taxation. City officials estimate that a complete elimination of homestead property taxes would create an annual funding gap of approximately $36 million, equivalent to about 40% of the City’s current property tax revenue and 10% of the general fund revenue.

Supporters of the amendment argue it would provide meaningful tax relief to homeowners. However, City officials note that the benefits would be limited to residents receiving a homestead exemption. Of approximately 89,000 households within Tallahassee city limits, about 25,500 households, or 28.6%, would directly benefit from lower property taxes.

The remaining 71% of households, many of them renters, would receive no direct tax reduction while continuing to contribute indirectly to property tax collections through rental payments. As a result, city officials contend that a majority of residents would continue paying for municipal services without receiving the proposed tax savings.

The amendment also would impose a five-year Florida residency requirement for new residents seeking the enhanced homestead exemption and would authorize local governments to adopt additional exemptions under certain circumstances.

City leaders say the recently implemented Voluntary Separation Incentive (VSI) program represents an important step toward preparing for potential future budget constraints if voters approve the amendment.

The proposed measure is expected to generate significant debate in the months leading up to the November election as local governments across Florida evaluate the impact of reduced property tax revenues on public safety, infrastructure, and other core services.

One of the most recent incidents occurred following a physical disturbance as a large crowd gathered in the parking lot of 2020 South Adams Street just before 3 a.m. on Sunday, June 7. A short time after the fight, one of the involved individuals retrieved a firearm and began shooting, striking three people. All three victims were shot while attempting to flee the area.

Following an investigation, the suspect was arrested and now faces three counts of attempted murder.

Over the last month, Tallahassee has experienced nine separate shootings resulting in 13 people injured and three homicides. Many of these incidents have occurred in or around locations where large crowds had gathered.

Check out TR’s latest analysis of crime incident data here.

While preliminary findings indicate each case is isolated in nature, the common denominator is clear: large, unsanctioned gatherings can create environments where conflicts escalate quickly, and innocent people are placed at risk.

In response, TPD is continuing to dedicate significant resources toward addressing these incidents through increased patrols, proactive enforcement, and focused monitoring of areas where large crowds are known to gather.

“Every shooting is unacceptable, and every victim is one too many,” said Chief Lawrence Revell. “Our officers, detectives and specialized units are working tirelessly to prevent violence, hold offenders accountable and keep our community safe. We have made arrests and will continue to pursue those responsible for these crimes. But public safety is a shared responsibility. We encourage residents to partner with us by reporting large gatherings and suspicious activity before violence occurs.”

TPD is asking community members to immediately notify law enforcement when they observe large crowds gathering in public spaces, parking lots or other locations where disturbances may develop. Early notification allows officers the opportunity to respond proactively, deter criminal activity and prevent situations from escalating.

The YTD Numbers

The incident data -tabulated by TR – show that YTD property crime incidents were up 11.5% and YTD violent crime incidents are up 23.8% through May when compared to one year ago.

Property crimes encompass burglaries, thefts, and incidents of vandalism. Violent incidents include aggravated assaults, armed robberies, and physical altercations.

A look at specific crimes reveals the increase in property crime was driven by increases in residential (13.6%) and commercial burglaries (76.9%) when compared to 2025. The Auto Burglary & Theft category – which accounts for approximately 55% of all property crimes – is down 1.4%.

The violent crime data shows that robbery incidents were up 21.5% while assault & battery incidents were up 24.4%.

12-Month Trends

The chart below shows the 12-month trends of property and violent crime incidents from January 2023 through May 2026.

Property crime incidents began to decline in December 2024 and reached a 3-year low in October 2025. For a brief period, the change in property crime has remained flat. However, over the last five months these crimes have started to increase.

Violent crime incidents peaked in October 2023 and reached a 3-year low in June 2025. Since then, violent crime incidents have been trending up.

Spending Growth

From 2018 to 2026, COT general fund spending increased from $151.5 million in 2018 to $225.945 million in 2026, a 49.1% increase. During this same period, population growth (3.31%) and inflation (26.8%) totaled 30.1% growth.

The graph below shows that cumulative general fund spending growth since 2019 followed population and inflation growth from 2019 through 2023. However, from 2024 to 2026 spending accelerated relative to population growth and inflation rates.

If general fund spending had followed population and inflation growth rates since 2024, the 2026 proposed budget would have been approximately $197.0 million or $29.0 million less than the approved 2026 budget of $226.0 million.

City Responds to Spending Growth

Tallahassee City Commissioners recently voted 3-2 to offer “voluntary separation” to its entire workforce of 2,700 employees beginning in May. Eligible employees, which are those hired before Jan. 1, 2026, who agree would be paid $20,000 or 12 weeks of pay. Those employees would keep health insurance through the end of the calendar year. The city expects between 100-175 employees may separate.

“The program is intended to reduce and contain personnel expenses, minimize the impact of workforce reductions on employees and provide employees with an option if they’re considering retirement or other career opportunities,” Resource Management Director Robert Wigen said during the city’s latest budget hearing. The reduction in positions would assist in balancing Fiscal Year 2026’s budget, with more impact Fiscal Year 2027.

The controversy centers on a $4.4 million HUD Lead Hazard Reduction grant awarded to the City of Tallahassee to identify and remove lead-based paint hazards in older housing occupied by low-income residents. In early May, HUD designated the city’s grant program as “high risk” and launched an audit after raising concerns about contractor costs, project eligibility and compliance with federal regulations.

According to city records and correspondence with federal officials, approximately $1.6 million has been spent through the program, with HUD having reimbursed the city about $1.03 million. Federal officials questioned several expenditures, including the cost of replacing doors at an apartment complex on Holton Street, where some door replacements reportedly exceeded $8,000 each.

The situation escalated on May 26 when HUD informed the city that costs associated with the Holton Street project were ineligible for reimbursement under the grant. Federal reviewers also concluded the city failed to provide sufficient documentation verifying tenant income eligibility, occupancy requirements and whether the project prioritized households with children under six years old — a central goal of the lead hazard reduction program.

As a result, HUD is requiring Tallahassee to repay at least $1.03 million in federal funds and warned that additional ineligible costs could be identified as the review continues. The city has suspended grant activities while working with federal officials to address the findings.

However, city officials are disputing HUD’s conclusions and have indicated they intend to appeal the repayment determination. Assistant City Manager Christian Doolin told city commissioners that staff believes documentation previously submitted to HUD adequately demonstrates compliance with program requirements. City officials contend the issue is not whether the work was performed, but whether the documentation provided satisfies federal standards. The city maintains that it can address HUD’s concerns through the appeals process and hopes to overturn the repayment demand.

The controversy has also triggered political fallout at City Hall. Commissioners have debated responsibility for the program’s management, while calls have emerged for a forensic audit and further investigation into the handling of federal housing funds. Allegations from a former employee and public disputes among elected officials have added to the scrutiny.

Federal officials have not alleged criminal wrongdoing, but the audit continues. The outcome could determine whether Tallahassee must return additional grant funds and what corrective actions may be required before the city can resume the lead hazard reduction program. The appeal process is expected to focus heavily on whether the city can provide sufficient evidence that grant-funded projects met HUD’s eligibility and documentation requirements.