Darnell Smith Returns as Deegan's Chief of Staff

Darnell Smith is returning to Jacksonville City Hall as Mayor Donna Deegan’s Chief of Staff, taking the post on August 10, 2026, after previously serving in 2024 and co-chairing Deegan’s transition in 2023. He comes back from retirement after a 30-year career with Florida Blue, where he was the Northeast Florida market president, and he will again help coordinate the mayor’s administrative staff as the top aide. The vacancy was created when former Chief of Staff Mike Weinstein moved to Chief Administrative Officer and Karen Bowling departed the administration. Deegan praised Smith’s leadership and commitment to making Jacksonville safer, healthier, and more affordable, while Smith thanked the city for the opportunity to continue serving. Salary reporting in one account pegged his pay at about $277,000 annually, aligning with Weinstein’s compensation. The move underscores Deegan’s effort to maintain a stable, experienced leadership team as she pursues a second term amid ongoing political and budget considerations.