Good Day, Gulfport,
I apologize for being late with this report, there’s been a lot happening around our City. Here are the key August updates I’d like to share:
Senior Center Plans
- Council Consensus: We had a productive discussion on the future of the Senior Center and reached agreement on both long-term and immediate actions.
- Architect Challenge: We’ve asked the architects to address our space concerns in three phases while keeping the center open:
- Expand into the existing southern parking lot
- Build upward over the current space
- Renovate the existing interior
Each phase must add usable space, widen hallways, increase storage, and improve bathrooms, while staying cost-effective.
- Funding: The City has committed to fund up to 50% of the total cost, and the Senior Foundation Board is planning larger fundraising efforts. We’ll need residents’ creativity and participation for new fundraising ideas.
- Immediate Action: Starting January 1, the center will open five nights per week to reduce overcrowding. Non-residents will pay a $100 annual membership fee to help offset expenses. Other options were discussed, but no final consensus was reached.
Environmental Efforts
- Rain Barrel Class: Well, attended! At least 50 new rain barrels are now in use, helping keep rainwater off our streets.
Civic & Volunteer Engagement
- A presentation on this program will be given at the October 7 Council Meeting.Gulfport Connects: The City has purchased a software program to coordinate civic and volunteer groups—the same platform used in North Carolina after major storms.
- Community Vision – Gulfport 2050 Town Hall:
📍 Catherine Hickman Theater
🗓 Tuesday, September 23 at 6:00 PM
Share your ideas for what Gulfport should look like in 2050. This is not a lecture, it’s your chance to shape our city’s future.
Stay Connected
- Email: klove@mygulfport.us
- Facebook: I post updates at least twice a week on the City’s page:
- Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly City newsletter at
- Council Meetings: All meetings are recorded and available online to watch anytime.
Thank you for staying engaged and helping us build a stronger Gulfport!
Mayor Karen Love