DDA trims Old School Square rental waiver for new fitness event to $2,000 after split vote

The Delray Beach Downtown Development Authority voted 4–3 on Sept. 8 to approve a one‑time reduction of the Old School Square rental fee from $4,000 to $2,000 for a proposed Club Del Rey wellness event scheduled for Sept. 27. Organizer Josh Brahmi described the event as a free, community‑facing fitness and wellness activation that would bring local vendors and restaurants to Old School Square and donate any profits to first‑responders. Brahmi said vendor fees (roughly $200 each) would cover much of the cost and that the group had modest marketing (about $250) planned. Board members split sharply during discussion. Some members urged caution about waiving fees generally, arguing that the DDA’s Old School Square venue is a municipal asset and fee waivers set precedent for other applicants. Others pushed to support the new event as an economic stimulus in a slow September season and suggested a one‑time reduction would help the organizer establish the program. After an initial motion to deny any waiver failed, a subsequent motion to approve a reduction to $2,000 passed by a 4–3 roll call. DDA staff and the board agreed to pursue a city consultation on a formal policy for future venue fee waivers and to require stronger sponsorship or revenue documentation for future requests. The fee reduction is limited to the Sept. 27 event only; the DDA asked staff to report on outcomes and sponsorships so future fee requests can be adjudicated under clarified policy guidelines.