Two powerful Jacksonville City Council members are denying any involvement with a mysterious foundation that Florida state records show was listed in both of their names along with a third man.
According to state corporation filings, Council President Kevin Carrico and Finance Chair Raul Arias were listed as directors of the now-defunct Bold City Cares Foundation, an organization that existed for only one week in August before being abruptly dissolved.
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Action News Jax uncovered that the foundation was formed on August 20 and dissolved on August 27, raising questions about its true purpose and who was actually behind it.
The not-for-profit was incorporated by a man named Mark Stemmermann, with the stated mission of helping small businesses improve their online presence. However, its principal address – 13770 Beach Boulevard – matched that of Mambo’s Restaurant, formerly owned by Arias and now operated by his parents.
Website quickly taken down
The Bold City Cares Foundation website, which described Stemmermann as a “visionary leader,” was taken offline shortly after Becker first contacted Arias for comment.
Before it was removed, screenshots captured by Action News Jax showed sponsorship packages ranging from $500 to $2,500, aimed at small businesses seeking exposure.
It’s unknown if any money was collected, how it may or may not have been used, and if forms were filed with the IRS.
Council members deny involvement
Both Carrico and Arias tell Action News Jax they had nothing to do with the filing and never authorized or consented to being named as directors of the foundation…