JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The News4JAX I-TEAM is investigating who is behind a mysterious anonymous text message sent to hundreds, if not thousands, of people across North Florida regarding JEA.
Recommended Videos
The message targets JEA CEO Vickie Cavey, who is not an elected official.
Unlike typical mass political texts that urge recipients to vote or support a candidate, this message specifically criticizes Cavey, alleging mismanagement and highlighting planned rate increases.
The message reads in part: “Another JEA rate hike under Vickie Cavey. Annual increases. Ongoing scandals. Mismanagement. Her compensation: $700K salary + $500K pension. Yours: higher bills. STOP to opt-out.”
News4JAX has learned the message was sent using a “spoofed” number, allowing the sender to mask their identity through multiple carriers.
MORE|Timeline: How ‘big favor’ texts sparked a JEA board shakeup and allegations about utility leadership|Jacksonville City Council president issued subpoena after controversial ‘big favor’ text sent to JEA board member
The text comes amid ongoing political tensions surrounding JEA, including investigations into workplace culture and a separate probe involving Jacksonville City Council President Kevin Carrico. Carrico was recently subpoenaed by the state attorney’s office to turn over phone records and electronic communications after attempting to help a former associate secure a position on the JEA board.
Nate Monroe, editor of the Tributary, said the message reflects a broader political climate in Jacksonville.
“We live in a different political time,” Monroe said. “It seems like campaigns are never-ending.”
Monroe, who has extensively covered JEA, including the events leading to the conviction of former CEO Aaron Zahn, said the message is unusual because it lacks a clear call to action.
“Normally when you’re solicited by a campaign, they’re asking for your vote, a donation or volunteer help,” Monroe said. “This one had no ask. It was just pointing out what it claims are problems. That is unusual.”
He added that anonymous messages like this are often tied to so-called “dark money” efforts and are becoming more common.
JEA Board Chair Joe DiSalvo said recently that criticism of Cavey intensified after JEA chose not to renew a contract with a local lobbying firm connected to former Jacksonville Mayor Lenny Curry, who has denied involvement.
Monroe said he believes the controversy gained traction after Carrico sent a text message to a board member about helping an associate — a message that later became public.
State and federal laws require political text messages to disclose who paid for them. News4JAX has confirmed the Federal Trade Commission has received complaints related to the messages.
While JEA is not commenting on the text messages they released this statement about rate changes.
As a municipal utility, JEA is committed to keeping costs as low as possible while providing the reliable services our customers depend on every day. Like many industries, rising operating costs driven by inflation, stricter regulatory requirements, and growing demand are increasing the cost to serve our community.
While rate adjustments implemented in 2025 helped better align revenue with the cost of service, a recent cost-of-service study projects FY27 revenue shortfalls of $19.6 million for water, $26 million for sewer, and $61.5 million for electric. Additional capacity charges and for capacity used above 20% of initial paid capacity that is currently at issue does not impact these projections or the potential need for future rate adjustments.
The JEA Board of Directors will convene on April 14 for a rates and capacity fee workshop to evaluate options and determine the best path forward for JEA and its customers. The Board is expected to consider next steps, including a potential rate hearing on May 19, a budget workshop on June 9, and a public rate hearing on June 30.
To continue delivering safe, reliable service, future rate adjustments will be necessary. Even with potential adjustments, JEA’s rates are expected to remain among the lowest in the state. However, we recognize the impact changes to utility bills can have on our customers. That’s why we will remain committed to providing tools, solutions, and assistance programs to help customers manage their monthly expenses.
JEA spokesperson