Downtown Development Authority approves $2.04 million operating budget for FY 2025–26

The Delray Beach Downtown Development Authority voted Sept. 8 to approve its fiscal 2025–26 operating budget, which the agency presented as a roughly $2.04 million plan focused on place management, marketing and events. The DDA will deliver the approved budget to the city for the commission’s final hearing next week. The budget sets operating revenues from the DDA’s 1‑mill special taxing district and projects approximately $44,000 in additional sponsorship or program revenue. It steers funding to the DDA’s downtown safety ambassador program, seasonal marketing and a $20,000 placemaking/activation grants pool. Executive Director Laura (DDA Executive Director) told the board the proposed spending reflects priorities identified during a June workshop and the DDA’s ongoing role as the downtown destination marketer. “We are the DMO for the community,” she said, describing line items for marketing, visitor services and ambassador coverage. Board members emphasized continued focus on downtown cleanliness, safety and activating slower months. Board member Al (board member) noted the increase in downtown activity tied to recent events and urged continued investment in attractions. Mayor Tom Carney (Mayor) said he wants the DDA to consider the taxpayer impact and signaled discussions with the city commission over the larger municipal budget process. The board approved the DDA budget by roll call. The DDA will appear at the city’s final budget hearing Sept. 15, where the city commission sets the official millage and adopts the municipal budget. The budget document allocates funds for a strategic‑plan update, continued funding for the Ambassador program and enhancements to public‑space lighting, park improvements and website/marketing platforms. The DDA staff said specific program contracts and consultant selections will follow a procurement process.