Business owners press commission on pier closure; city staff pursue state and federal relief options
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Summary
Public commenters described lost revenue since the pier closed and urged the commission to develop business relief. The city said it is exploring state and federal sources and local avenues to support affected S-curve businesses but noted limits because the area was not in a federal disaster declaration.
Small-business owners and residents told the Deerfield Beach City Commission the long closure of the pier has hurt restaurants and retailers along the S curve, and asked the city for relief options.
Dan Hurst, a public commenter who identified himself as a candidate for mayor, said the pier attracted roughly 400,000 visitors in 2023 and that nearby small businesses have faced sharp sales declines since the pier closed on June 3. He proposed a working-capital loan program pegged to documented sales declines and offered pro-bono help designing the program.
City staff and commissioners said they are pursuing available relief but identified legal and program limits. The city manager said staff is working with federal and state partners, the Florida League of Cities and economic-development agencies to identify funding sources, but explained that because the pier damage stemmed from a storm event that did not place the city inside a federal disaster-declaration area, federal funds are unlikely. The city is continuing to pursue opportunities with state programs and the Florida League of Cities and to explore SBA options for individual businesses.
Commissioners also discussed partial reopening options for the pier in time for centennial celebrations, with staff noting construction and staging constraints that limit access as repairs continue. The commission said it will continue to press contractors for feasible partial access while balancing safety and repair sequencing.
No formal relief program was adopted at the meeting. Commissioners encouraged continued outreach to state and federal partners and directed staff to keep businesses informed about any available assistance.