Weekly News Conference with Mayor D.C. Reeves June 17, 2026 | City of Pensacola

This was a weekly news conference held by the City of Pensacola on June 17, 2026, led by Mayor D.C. Reeves. The meeting focused heavily on economic development and procurement-related updates, including the upcoming Triumph Gulf Coast board meeting to approve a $76 million grant for Berdon's new manufacturing facility at the port. The project also involves $14 million from the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund, $33 million from the U.S. Department of Commerce EDA grant, and a $152 million investment from Berdon itself. The mayor highlighted ongoing efforts to finalize lease terms and grant agreements requiring city council approval. Additionally, the city is pursuing workforce development grants in partnership with local agencies to support the anticipated 2,000 jobs from Berdon's operations. Other procurement-related topics included the approval of an RFP for a community engagement and development feasibility advisor by the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA), and updates on capital projects such as demolition sequencing and sanitation schedule changes. The mayor also discussed budget preparations for the 2027 fiscal year, noting the need for contingency planning amid potential property tax changes and flat budget growth, which may impact pay levels and cost-of-living adjustments. Transportation infrastructure projects were addressed, including FDOT's decision not to proceed with converting MLK and Davis Highway to two-way traffic due to funding and maintenance concerns.