The West Palm Beach Downtown Neighborhood Association (DNA) is a volunteer group that exists to further the interests of downtown West Palm Beach residents. The DNA's mission is to advocate for the safety, well-being, and quality of life of downtown residents. There are over 100 Neighborhood Associations in the City of West Palm Beach that were formed to provide an additional line of communication, on behalf of the residents, to the Mayor's Office and the City Commission.
About the Downtown Development Authority (DDA)
The West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority (DDA) is an independent special taxing district established by the Florida Legislature in 1967 at the request of community stakeholders to help revitalize and sustain the downtown area.
Today, the DDA works to enhance the quality of life, economic vitality, and overall experience within the Downtown District—delivering programs and initiatives above and beyond the standard municipal services provided by the City of West Palm Beach.
The DDA is a separate entity from the City, created to help guide the long-term growth and vitality of Downtown West Palm Beach. The DDA can levy up to 2 mills in ad valorem taxes on properties located within the DDA District to fund projects and initiatives that enhance downtown.
The DDA’s role is to plan for the future of downtown—developing strategies to improve property values, support businesses, and create a thriving, connected urban experience. The DDA recommends these plans to the Mayor and to downtown stakeholders, then takes action to make them a reality. In short, the DDA serves both as an advocate for downtown residents and businesses and as an organization with the funding and tools to get things done within its boundaries.
The Mayor of West Palm Beach appoints the DDA Board members and may assign special projects to the DDA with its consent.
How the DDA is Funded
If you own property within the Downtown District boundaries, you pay a special tax of $.97 for every $1,000 of assessed property value (0.97 mill). For example, a condo assessed at $500,000 would pay about $485 annually. If you rent, your building owner pays this tax.
The DDA is authorized to levy a second mill; however, since 2007, this portion has been covered by the City’s Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) through an interlocal agreement between the City, CRA, and DDA.
About the CRA
The Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) is a tax-increment-funded agency that also serves the Downtown/City Center area. The CRA works to strengthen economic vitality and quality of life through redevelopment projects and public improvements. Learn more about the CRA →
