JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- Political maneuvering, church members protesting and even an alleged threat were all part of the commotion as Jacksonville's ongoing budget battle continued to grow more emotional on Monday as the City Council worked to balance some major cuts with new controversial fees.

The scene outside City Hall told part of the story as members of a local church protested some proposed new fees, which they said would be a direct violation of the Constitution.

"No church taxes," protestors shouted as they marched and held their signs high.

The church-goers said the proposed storm water fee is a tax and could force some churches and other nonprofit agencies to shut down.

"We do know it's going to dramatically affect churches. We believe there's a better way then to put the financial burden on the backs of those organizations that give the most to this community," said protestor Tim Mills.

There was also drama inside the doors of City Hall as one councilwoman said her proposal cut the mayor's literacy program brought a threat on her life.

Councilwoman Glorious Johnson proposed cutting the literacy program as well as the Jacksonville Children's Commission as an alternative to new fees for taxpayers.

"My point is, we are not in business of being the Department of Education or the Duval County school system," Johnson said.

However, Johnson's idea was shot down by the rest of the council. The idea also didn't make her very popular with some constituents who she said threatened her.

"'You better watch your back. We will destroy you. We will get rid of you,' those kinds of comments. To me if people want to make those kinds of comments about the Jacksonville Children's Commission then what are they really hiding?" Johnson said.

Johnson said she may have the state attorney's office look into the threats.

However, her concern now is the budget, which still hasn't passed.

All in all, City Council has found itself in a very contentious budget session.

"My goal is to pass the budget tomorrow," said Council President Daniel Davis.

On Monday night, the City Council passed a garbage collection fee -- $3 per month that taxpayers will have to pay.

The proposed storm water is slated to be discussed on Tuesday.