Kenneth Grama Inspirations seeks 80% commercial incentive grant for new downtown studio

Latoya Carey, co-owner of Kenneth Grama Inspirations, presented a proposal to the Downtown Redevelopment Board in Daytona Beach asking the board to consider recommending an 80% commercial incentive grant covering $35,505.07 of the project’s cost for a new studio at 101 South Palmetto Avenue. Carey described Kenneth Grama Inspirations as a photography and digital design firm that focuses on professional portraits, personal branding and corporate work, and said the business plans to relocate into the Martin and Associates CPA building on Palmetto Avenue. Carey said the requested grant would cover 80% of eligible expenses and that the business would provide the 20% match, supported by two estimates or invoices and proof of payment for the applicant’s share. Staff told the board the grant request must also go before the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) because the request exceeds the city manager’s signature authority. Because the board did not have a full quorum at the meeting, members agreed to hear the presentation for awareness but did not take a formal vote; staff said the request is effectively deferred to the CRA and will draw on funds available in the next fiscal year beginning Oct. 1. Carey showed images of the proposed studio, described planned interior renovations (including removing a bulkhead, opening ceiling space, new flooring and lighting), and explained community-facing activities the business has provided, such as student classes with Daytona State College and Bethune-Cookman University and work with local nonprofit Cultiview. The board expressed support in principle and directed staff to move the item forward to the CRA for formal consideration. No grant award was approved at the meeting.