Commission to review Retail Strategies invoice after mixed community response; city marketplace canceled for season

Dade City commissioners told staff on March 11 to put the Retail Strategies contract and the company’s pending invoice on the April 8 agenda for fuller review after commissioners and public speakers raised concerns about deliverables and community benefit.

Commissioner Cosentino and others said Marketplace — a city-supported weekend market that relied on Youth Council volunteers — will be discontinued for the remainder of the season because volunteer participation and vendor numbers dwindled. Cosentino said the city may seek an outside party to run the market next season.

Several commissioners and residents criticized the Retail Strategies consultant arrangement and the pace of visible results. Commissioner (last name) said the city has paid $105,000 to date and that a third installment of $40,000 was coming; commissioners asked for written deliverables and proof of progress before approving further payments. Commissioner Church said the contract lacks guaranteed deliverables and asked staff to renegotiate or present what the city would do in-house if the contract is not renewed.

Mayor Scott Black and others urged a balanced approach: some commissioners argued that an outside firm brings contacts and experience the city cannot build overnight and that trade-show representation and long-term outreach can take time to produce results.

Ending: The commission directed staff to place the Retail Strategies invoice and contract on the April agenda for consideration (prompt‑payment schedule allows time for review). Marketplace was canceled for the remainder of the season, and commissioners suggested exploring alternative operator arrangements for future markets.