In a mid-day ceremony on Tuesday, January 27th attended by numerous current and former City and state elected officials, the Jacksonville City Council dedicated one of the committee meeting rooms in City Hall as a lasting memorial to the late Don Davis, a former City Council member, Council President and state representative who died in April 2008 after a long and distinguished career of public service to the city.

Speakers, including Mayor John Peyton and the honoree's son Robert Davis, recounted the late councilman's love of Jacksonville and his dedication to public service throughout his distinguished career on the City Council and in the State Legislature. Mr. Davis, a long-time employee of Gate Petroleum, served on the City Council from 1987 to 1995 and was President of the Council in 1993-94 and 1998-99. He was instrumental in helping to revive the City's stadium lease negotiations with Wayne Weaver's ownership group that ultimately resulted in a successful lease agreement that helped the group secure the Jacksonville Jaguars franchise from the NFL. He was also well known during his council presidencies for his monthly 'work days' during which he would perform a variety of city jobs, such as filling potholes or collecting curbside recycling, along with rank and file city employees to learn about their jobs and working conditions.

After two terms on the City Council, Mr. Davis was elected to the Florida Legislature where he served for 8 years before his death. Mr. Davis, a decorated Korean War veteran, also served as Chairman of The Players Championship, President of the Gator Bowl Association, and in numerous other charitable and civic capacities.

Further information or comments may be obtained from Cheryl Brown, Director/Council Secretary at (904) 630-1452.