On the eve of the last day of summer, I find time to write my August/September report.
A couple of major things happened in terms of post-hurricane recovery. The waterfront cottages that were sold began asbestos abatement, and demolition permits were applied for. It appears to be a slow process, but it has started. Construction of the floating docks also began and, thanks to good weather, moved along faster than expected. At this point, we are waiting for the lighting to be completed to finish the job.
Code Enforcement has continued to reach out to homeowners, and we have only three remaining who have not communicated their plans to the City or applied for permits. Cases continue to be brought before the magistrate to bring these properties into compliance.
We held a budget workshop on August 6. The City Manager presented a budget that was $25,000 less than the 2025–2026 fiscal year budget, even though public safety expenses increased by approximately $300,000. The budget was passed at the September 15 meeting after the City Council cut an additional $100,000 from it.
City staff is currently working on additional cuts and potential revenue generators for the December 3 workshop in case Amendment 3 is approved by voters on November 3. If Amendment 3 passes, we expect a revenue loss of $1.1 million in 2027 and an additional $1.8 million in 2028.
I traveled to Hollywood, Florida, to receive an award on behalf of the Gulfport Recovers team. The award was presented by the Florida League of Mayors in recognition of innovative ideas. I led a team of residents, some who had experienced flooding and some who had not, to create information that will help future residents recover more quickly from hurricane damage. This information can be found on the City’s website at mygulfport.us and guides residents through the recovery process, from returning home on day one through obtaining the necessary permits.
I will answer the number one question I am routinely asked; will we rebuild the Casino? Yes, we have made great progress on the Casino behind the scenes. I expect the project to go out to bid by the end of the year, with construction expected to take approximately one year, weather permitting.
I can be reached at klove@mygulfport.us, and I hold office hours on Thursdays from 10:30 a.m. to noon. I like hearing from you and appreciate your help in sharing accurate information.