JACKSONVILLE, Fla., Updated 3:32 p.m. EST January 26, 2001 -- The final tally is in, and an independent audit shows that the Billy Graham Crusade raised more than $3 million during its four-day run here in November.

"I hate to see this come to an end," said Ginger Soud, a city councilwoman who chaired the crusade's executive committee.

Soud said she that was thrilled the final budget showed donations were about $209,000 more than expected.

According to the audit by Deloitte & Touche, more than half of the crusade receipts came from individual and foundation contributions and offerings taken during the crusade at Alltel stadium.

An estimated 250,000 people turned out to hear Graham, 81, preach.

As a result of the excess contributions, the committee was able to provide $100,000 gifts to Louisville, Ky., and Fresno, Calif., the sites of the next crusade. An additional $9,000 will be sent to the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association in Minneapolis to help defray the costs of televising the Jacksonville crusade.

Graham received "no compensation, offering or gifts from the crusade for his services," the audit said.

Previous Stories:

• November 7, 2000: 250,000 People Hear Graham Preach
• November 6, 2000: Bush Stops In Jax For Church & Billy Graham
• November 3, 2000: Thousands Attend First Night Of Crusade
• October 31, 2000: Rev. Billy Graham Says He's Praying For Success Of Crusade
• October 20, 2000: Businesses Hope Graham Brings More Than Prayer