Jacksonville Councilmember Rejects Holiday Party Invitation on NFL Owner’s Yacht, Emphasizes Commitment to Constituents

Jacksonville Councilmember Declines Holiday Party Invitation Aboard NFL Owner’s Yacht

Jacksonville, Fla. – In a recent statement, Councilmember Jimmy Peluso explained his decision to decline an invitation to a holiday gathering hosted on the luxurious yacht of Jacksonville Jaguars owner Shad Khan. The event, scheduled for Monday, celebrated a decade of promoting local businesses to the United Kingdom.

Who and What

The host of the party is Shad Khan, a prominent figure in both the sports and business realms. Councilmember Peluso chose not to attend the refined yet casual affair, which was expected to feature finger foods, various beverages, and about 60 attendees, including Mayor Donna Deegan and other city officials. Despite Khan not being present, the Jaguars were represented by team President Mark Lamping.

Where and When

The venue for the gathering is Khan’s 410-foot yacht, known as the Kismet, docked in Jacksonville. The event took place on December 9, 2024, creating an opportunity for local officials to mingle with business leaders amidst the scenic backdrop of the St. Johns River.

Why the Decision Matters

Peluso expressed that attending such gatherings detracts from the responsibilities he holds towards his constituents. In a statement, he noted, “It seemed like a perfectly fine event, but I decided not to attend. I didn’t get elected so I can hobnob; I came here to work for our citizens.” His choice underscores a growing concern regarding the appropriateness of public officials’ participation in private events, particularly those linked to businesses benefitting from taxpayer-funded projects.

Ethics and Compliance Concerns

While Peluso opted out, the party did not breach any existing gift laws in Florida, which restrict the value of gifts officials can accept from entities conducting business with the city to $100. Mayor Deegan’s office reported that the estimated cost per attendee was under $50, thus remaining within legal limits, even for officials bringing guests. Ethics advisor Carla Miller confirmed this compliance, reassuring the public that the event would not infringe on ethical guidelines.

Ongoing Review of the Event

The director of the city’s Office of Ethics, Kirby Oberdorfer, indicated that the event is currently under review, stating, “We are currently vetting the event and awaiting additional information from the host.” This type of review is not uncommon, as elected officials often receive invitations to events that necessitate ethical scrutiny.

Responses and Public Trust

With nine city council members and the mayor attending the yacht party, Peluso’s decision drew attention to the optics surrounding public officials’ involvement in private gatherings. The discussion bolstered an ongoing dialogue on transparency and public trust in local governance—issues that have gained more traction in recent years.

As Jacksonville navigates its priorities amidst a changing landscape of public service and private influence, council members like Peluso highlight a commitment to serving the community over engaging in high-profile social events. The implications of their choices can significantly affect the relationship between local leaders and the constituents they serve.