Created: 8/20/2009 11:41:07 AM 
JACKSONVILLE, FL -- The perk enjoyed by the Mayor's Office and the City Council of having access to Jaguars football tickets at taxpayer expense could be history.
The council's Finance Committee voted that the $43,000 expense is something taxpayers can no longer afford.
In spirited debate, members voiced the pros and cons of the city no longer buying 40 tickets for the skybox at Jacksonville Municipal Stadium.
"I don't think we necessarily need to spend taxpayer dollars buying tickets," said Council President Richard Clark, who introduced the amendment.
Councilman Bill Bishop understands the rationale, but countered by saying, "That alone sends a message to the city in general and the Jaguars that we don't support the team."
At present, the Mayor and the Council President decide who gets the tickets and access to the skybox.
The Finance Committee did support a compromise that takes taxpayers out of the equation but allows council members to buy tickets if they want to attend a game.
The Committee's recommendation goes to the full Council when it votes on the city's budget next month.
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