Good Day, Gulfport,
Monthly Report – September
September brought plenty of rain, but not the cooler temperatures we were hoping for.
City Council held two meetings with robust public comment and thoughtful discussion. I’m pleased to report that the millage rate was adopted with no increase. Council also approved a balanced budget reflecting an approximate 1% increase over last year, an admirable outcome given last year’s impacts and the restoration still ahead.
Council reaffirmed two major priorities for Gulfport’s future:
- advancing improvements and an expansion of the Senior Center, and
- launching a coordinated, long-term stormwater program to reduce flooding from heavy rainfall and tide.
The Charter Review Committee presented its initial recommendations for charter updates. Council will revisit these in October. Any items with clear consensus will be placed on the March ballot as referendums for residents to decide.
We executed contracts to begin construction at 54th & Shore in early October and to proceed with engineering design work for the Casino. I also hosted a community visioning session, Gulfport 2050 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ftGqwhi4GiI) and a Small Talk conversation at the Senior Center.
As a reminder, my office hours are Thursdays, 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. I’m also very responsive by email at klove@mygulfport.us. Please share this update with a neighbor or friend. For records and transparency, I do not conduct City business via Messenger.
Mayor Karen Love