Jacksonville says no to free aerial videos

It’s hard to say no to free swag. Especially when it’s presented to a new mayor under the auspices of membership in the United States Conference of Mayors (a bargain at just $26K a year). Yet the Lenny Curry administration appears to have done just that.

An email came through earlier in July from CGI, a company that promotes a “cost-free Community Showcase Video Program that we are working on in partnership with the National League of Cities and U.S. Conference of Mayors. The program provides partners with an additional tool to educate and welcome future residents, recruit new business and industry, promote tourism, and much more.”

Kissimmee, Daytona Beach and Plantation already work with this outfit, which provides “custom videos that advance marketing and promotional efforts.”

“From script consultation to editing, our team will work with you every step of the way to ensure your community is highlighted to the best of its ability. The finished video content is viewable on your official website and additional media outlets that encourage community outreach,” the email continues.

“We are rapidly approaching our busy filming season and already booking appointments into late August,” continued the email from marketing associate Sara Fitzgerald, who includes a picture in her sig that features her dazzling, winsome smile.

Regrettably, sometimes the best things in life aren’t free.

“A review/demonstration of the videos offered by CGI was conducted and on surface appeared to be a potential source of “free” videos for the City. However, after review of the agreement and sponsorship by the Office of General Counsel it was determined this would not be in the best interest of the City,” read the response from Marlene Russell of the Lenny Curry administration.

“CGI agreement does not include good termination provisions, there were issues regarding the use of the City name, and there is no content of sponsors and sponsorship messages. Based on the recommendation from OGC we will not be pursuing the 2015 Community Video Program with CGI,” Russell continued.

For now, Jacksonville’s videos will be from the ground level.