Florida DOGE Launches Statewide Audits Targeting Excessive Local Spending

Florida's Department of Governmental Efficiency (DOGE), led by CFO Blaise Ingoglia and supported by Governor Ron DeSantis, is conducting audits of local government finances in multiple municipalities including Jacksonville, Orange County, Broward County, Gainesville, and Manatee County. These audits aim to scrutinize rising property tax collections, which have increased significantly since 2020—57% in Jacksonville and over $330 million annually in Orange County—amid concerns over excessive spending and fiscal responsibility. DOGE teams are requesting extensive access to documents, data systems, personnel, and physical premises to evaluate procurement, contracting, compensation, property management, utilities, and other financial areas. Jacksonville city officials, including Mayor Donna Deegan, have affirmed cooperation with DOGE and emphasized responsible management of city finances, while local officials in Orange County also expressed willingness to comply and transparency. The audits follow local resolutions and state initiatives to ensure accountability and transparency in government spending, with the stated goal of identifying opportunities for improvement and protecting taxpayers. The efforts reflect a broader state push to align local government fiscal policies with state-level standards amid rising budgets and property tax burdens.