by Liz Daube
Staff Writer
Local political, community and business leaders honored outgoing City Council President Kevin Hyde at the University Club Thursday.
The Jacksonville Regional Chamber of Commerce organized the annual president’s lunch. Attendees included City Council members, the Duval County School Board, Chamber leadership and Hyde’s wife, Kathi.
Brenda Priestly Jackson, school board chair, said Hyde has helped create “a relationship and philosophy of trust that’s been forged between the City and the school board.” Steve Wallace, Chamber chair-elect and Florida Community College president, highlighted Hyde’s workforce development efforts and leadership skills.
Incoming City Council President Michael Corrigan, who takes office June 29, read a list of Hyde’s accomplishments from the past year.
“Having read that list,” Corrigan said with a smile, “apparently there’s nothing for me to do this year. Thanks, Kevin.”
Hyde talked about his presidency and his hopes for the future. He said he expects Corrigan to be a “great” successor. Hyde also recognized the work of his fellow Council members and their assistants.
“I’m one of 19 (City Council members),” said Hyde. “We fuss and fight a lot, but that’s what families do.”
He listed three challenges for the next City Council year: balancing development needs with City finances, investing in education, and addressing socioeconomic and racial differences.
“We have to have these conversations,” said Hyde. “I’m not dead yet. There are still things I want to accomplish.”