Jacksonville’s COVID-19 reopening plan presented to national audience

Jacksonville, FL — Jacksonville Mayor Lenny Curry praised President Donald Trump and Governor Ron DeSantis and said their leadership really helped during the COVID-19 response.

“Together, we took actions immediately to flatten the curve and protect our health systems,” Mayor Curry said.

Mayor Curry was part of a panel of seven mayors from across the country, delivering a five-minute speech and answering questions from members of the U.S. House of Representatives Select Subcommittee. Curry discussed how Jacksonville is using the $160 million it received through the Federal Cares Act Relief Package, providing $1,000 to 40,000 people.

The mayor also talked about testing.

“Our daily testing capacity is already double the amount experts say is a must and we are still adding more,” Curry said.

Congressman Jim Jordan of Ohio, a Republican, likes Mayor Curry’s restraint in handling COVID-19.

“I want to thank you mostly as someone who sits on the judiciary committee for respecting the constitution,” he said. Jordan asked the mayor if he closed churches and gun shops. The mayor said no.

Seattle’s mayor said this hearing isn’t the proper place for praise.

“We are here today to ask Congress, not for bumper stickers, but for help,” she said.

Congress Blaine Luetkemeyer asked if Jacksonville could handle a second wave.

Curry said, “I do not believe another shutdown is sustainable. I do not believe it’s an option..”