Tag: Executive Director Report

As we closed out 2025, our Board and staff remain focused on strengthening Downtown West Palm Beach through place management, economic development, and mobility. In partnership with City departments, local businesses, and community organizations, we continue advancing projects that enhance safety, walkability, and the overall sense of place. 

Board Meeting: December 9, 2025 

• Communications and Public Relations Update: Staff shared an update on social media performance, In the News coverage, an overview of the awards received for our programming, business update and new initiatives focused on downtown. (Click Here to see presentation) 

• WPBGo: Program director Ameila Sherfield provided an update on the e-bike voucher program, the ongoing partnership with Palm Beach Atlantic University, and ACCESS WPB, the commuter benefits program. (Click Here to see presentation) 

• Strategic Planning: The Board approved the scope for a DDA strategic plan to align our mission, vision, and priorities with current needs. The RFP will launch in January 2026. (Click Here to see scope) 

• Business Incentives: The board approved the incentive application for KYMA and requested a reassessment of the incentive program to better serve a growing business community. New program options will be discussed in February 2026. (Click Here to see presentation) 

District Services Update:  

Tree canopy improvements are underway through our partnership with the City. Led by Scott Lewis’ Gardening, crews have removed dead palms and prepped irrigation and landscaping. Oak planting is beginning, with three oaks scheduled for installation at Dixie Highway and Fern Street to add shade, improve walkability, and strengthen the streetscape. 

Residential Partner Meetings 

If you are interested in discussing district needs and DDA programs. Property managers who would like to connect can reach me at [email protected]. 

Executive Director’s Update: October at a Glance 

As we begin a new fiscal year, our Board reviewed the FY2026 budget and areas of focus, centering on place management, economic development, and mobility. We reaffirmed partnerships with city departments, business owners, and community organizations, and launched projects that strengthen safety, walkability, and the overall sense of place downtown. 

Board Meeting: October 21, 2025 

• Priorities and Funding: Staff presented how funding aligns with our four pillars. (Click Here to see presentation) 

• Market Research: The Board approved an agreement with Radius Global Market Research, a leading independent research firm, for the 2025–26 Market and Visitor Survey, which will take pace November 2025 through January 2026. The data received from their research has been instrumental in decision making regarding perceptions on public safety, parking, and programming.  

• Strategic Planning: As Downtown West Palm Beach continues to grow and evolve, it is critical that the DDA establishes a clear and actionable strategic roadmap that aligns with our mission, vision, and priorities. We have experienced significant changes in our operating environment, community needs, and internal capacities.  The Board approved drafting the scope for a DDA strategic plan that will be reviewed at the November board meeting.  

Residential Partner Meetings 

We continued our meetings, including a session with Sole at Center City, to discuss district needs and DDA programs. Property managers who would like to connect can reach me at [email protected]. 

Executive Director’s Update: September at a Glance

As we close September and our fiscal year, here’s a quick look at what your Downtown Development Authority team advanced for Downtown West Palm Beach.

Residential Partner Meetings

We met with Griffis (formerly Anya), 610 Clematis, and Colonnade Properties to align on district priorities, share DDA programs, and gather input on safety, maintenance, and activation needs. If you manage a residential property in the DDA District and would like to meet with us, please contact me at [email protected].

Board Meeting — September 19, 2025

• Public Safety: The West Palm Beach Police Department presented an update on the Downtown Detail (noise-control enforcement, including citations, and arrests tied to recent graffiti activity), plus continued operations focused on late-night activity and outreach to unhoused individuals. (Click Here to see presentation)
• Lighting Study: Kimley-Horn presented Phase 1 findings of a districtwide lighting assessment focused on improving safety and visibility in areas that are too dark; especially alleyways, pedestrian corridors, and storefront edges. DDA staff is now preparing a plan and budget to add and upgrade fixtures, fill dark gaps, and standardize illumination levels. (Click Here to see presentation)
• Market Research: Radius Global Market Research, a leading independent research firm, outlined how its data continues to inform our decision making on public safety, parking, and programming. The 2025–26 Market & Visitor Survey will field November 2025 through January 2026. (Click Here to see presentation)

Final Budget Hearing — September 17, 2025

The DDA Board adopted the FY26 budget at a 0.97 millage rate, with no increase.