MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
September is bringing exciting changes to our downtown as new buildings start to rise and construction buzzes around us. I'm thrilled to announce that we have new Founding Donors who have generously contributed to support the DNA: Commissioner Christy Fox, Peter Cruise, and Marilyn Cortell. A heartfelt thank you to them! You can view the full list of our Founding Donors here.
We're also making great strides in ensuring that your voices are heard by the City and the DDA. Check out below to see what we've been working on. The DDA budget hearings are tonight and September 16th which we encourage you to attend. Plus, our signature Holiday Cocktail Party planning is in full swing, Tickets are now on sale at early-bird pricing and and we're currently accepting sponsors. Let's keep the momentum going!
Sitima Fowler, WPB DNA President
UPCOMING EVENTS
September 9th and 16th, 5 PM, DDA Proposed Budget Public Hearing, The Community Foundation - The Downtown Development Authority (DDA) is holding a public hearing to review their tentative fiscal year budget and get input from the public. The public can ask questions and provide input. The Community Foundation is located at 700 S. Dixie Hwy. For more information, CLICK HERE.
Calendar of Downtown Events Click Here
City of WPB Events Click Here
ADVOCACY
The DNA has partnered with the Downtown Development Authority (DDA) to amplify the voice of our residents. We're actively collecting your requests and adding them to our collaborative spreadsheet, which we're sharing with the DDA and the City to work towards building awareness and resolutions. Establishing this communication channel is a significant step forward, and we look forward to hearing your voices and seeing positive results. Together, we are creating a better downtown community! Send us your feedback at [email protected].
NEWS
Vanderbilt University: The WPB City Commission voted to give Vanderbilt University downtown land worth at least $12.8 million as the Nashville-based private school advances its plan to build a 300,000-square foot graduate campus. Its about two acres of land on South Tamarind Avenue and on Evernia and Fern streets. The DNA has had a meeting with the Vanderbilt University team and will inform our members as we know more.
Downtown Development Authority: The DDA approved two RFPs, one for legal services and the other for PR services. They also selected a vendor for the holiday light displays on Clematis Ave from 500 block through the 100 block. The DDA also welcomed their newest board member Bernado Neto, General Manager of The Ben Hotel. He replaces Varisa Lall Dass, whose term ended. Also on October 1, 2024 you will see the yellow shirted security ambassadors replaced with the team from Block by Block.
BECOME A SPONSOR
Do you want to sponsor the next DNA newsletter? Or do you want even more visibility and sponsor the DNA's signature event 2024 Holiday Cocktail Party? While supporting the DNA, you will also get a chance to promote your business, event and service. Check out the event and sponsor packages HERE.
BE IN THE KNOW. LET YOUR VOICE BE HEARD
Downtown residents pay additional taxes to fund the Downtown Development Authority (DDA). Check out the August 2024 DDA board meeting packet and budget. DDA Board Meetings are open to the public and are held on the 3rd Tuesday of each month at 8:30 a.m. (temporarily at the Ben hotel). For questions or to submit public comments, please email [email protected]
PAST EVENTS
August Pop-Up at the Blind Monk - Supporting our downtown restaurants and having member get togethers have been successful at our monthly pop-ups. Thanks to all for coming out and joining the fun!
BECOME A MEMBER
Not a DNA Member? Join Now for only $25/year and get involved! As a DNA member, you are helping to enhance quality of lives by strengthening the collaboration between residents, government and businesses through Social Interaction, Information Sharing and Advocacy. #StrengthInNumbers
VOLUNTEERING MATTERS
Our signature Holiday Party planning is underway and we need volunteers. We need help with getting sponsors, raffle prizes and marketing help. We are open to new and innovative ideas. Please reach out to us at [email protected]. Have fun and make new friends by joining us!
IMPORTANT CONTACTS
- WPB Police (Non-Emergency): 561-822-1900
- Security Ambassadors: 561-446-2036
- City Hotline: 561-822-2222
- City Services: 561-822-2210 (emergencies)
- Download Free App - The WPBKey app provides a platform for residents to engage with the city to maintain a cleaner & safer neighborhood.