News Summary
Jacksonville is considering a proposal to offer up to $400,000 in public incentives to attract a California-based film or television production company to shoot locally. This initiative, known as Ordinance 2025-0720, introduced by City Council member Rahman Johnson, aims to enhance the city’s film industry and create jobs. The expected investment from the production company is around $3 million, generating significant economic benefits including hundreds of local jobs and hotel stays. The proposal is currently under discussion within the City Council.
Jacksonville is considering providing up to $400,000 in public incentives to attract a California-based film or television production company to shoot locally. The proposal is part of Ordinance 2025-0720, introduced by City Council member Rahman Johnson, and seeks to bring new business and job opportunities to the area while enhancing the city’s film industry profile.
The funding would be sourced from the city’s debt management fund and allocated to the Office of Economic Development (OED). Although the specific production is kept under wraps and identified only as “Project T,” the OED is tasked with negotiating an agreement with the production company before the arrangement is presented to the City Council for approval.
This proposal was discussed during a meeting of the Neighborhoods, Community Services, Public Health and Safety Committee on September 15. The OED’s director of economic development, Ed Randolph, indicated that the production company plans to invest around $3 million while filming in Jacksonville. The project is also expected to bring significant economic benefits, generating approximately 2,400 hotel room nights for staff involved in the film and creating around 100 local jobs.
Jacksonville anticipates a robust return on this investment, estimating a return of $7 for every $1 allocated to the project. This funding is part of the OED’s “Film and Television Incentive” program. The city’s Film & Television Program was launched in March 2024, providing rebates for film and television projects with a minimum of $1 million in qualified expenses in Duval County, with funding for such projects capped at $400,000.
While the proposal aims to generate excitement about Jacksonville’s film potential, City Council members have recently raised concerns over direct cash payouts for incentives. There is a growing preference for alternatives such as Recapture Enhanced Value Grants, which would encourage investment without upfront costs to the city. Randolph noted the city’s ongoing struggle to compete for film and TV production opportunities against other Florida cities.
Historically, Jacksonville has a rich film background, once home to over 30 film studios in the early 1900s. Unfortunately, due to competition from Hollywood and various local cultural conflicts, the city has experienced a decline in its film industry reputation. Despite these challenges, some notable films have been shot in Jacksonville, including “G.I. Jane,” “The Devil’s Advocate,” “Basic,” and others.
Rahman Johnson’s initiative comes with an interesting background in journalism and entertainment. He previously hosted the Nickelodeon TV show “SPLAT,” reflecting a commitment to enhancing cultural and entertainment opportunities in the city. The decision on Ordinance 2025-0720 was, however, deferred in the committee with a vote of 3-2, indicating that at least four votes are needed for further recommendation.
City Council members Randy White, Ken Amaro, and Michael Boylan voted in support of the ordinance, while members Mike Gay and Ron Salem opposed it. Notably, Council member Chris Miller was absent, providing an excuse, and Tyrona Clark-Murray was not present during the vote.
As the city further explores this opportunity to boost its presence in the film industry, details regarding Project T remain confidential due to a policy that restricts disclosure of the code names used in economic development agreements. The potential of attracting high-budget film productions offers a glimpse into Jacksonville’s efforts to revitalize its cinematic landscape and foster local economic growth.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Mayor Deegan Announces Town Hall Meetings for Budget Discussion
Jacksonville City Council Proposes Incentives for Film Production
Casting Opportunities Available for Actors in Florida
Additional Resources
- Jacksonville Daily Record
- News4Jax
- First Coast News
- Wikipedia: Film Industry in the United States
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Film
Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
