Rotary clothes drive for unhoused students, restaurant opening and arts updates highlight public comment

Several community groups and business owners used the Nov. 4 Delray Beach City Commission public-comment period to announce local initiatives and seek support.

Rotary and residents launching clothing drive for unhoused students: Vera Woodson and Rita of the Rotary described an initiative to supply clothing, underwear and hygiene items to students identified through McKinney-Vento lists across eight Delray schools. Woodson said they arranged a public registry (similar to a gift registry) and a QR code for donations and a fundraising event; the Rotary will coordinate drop-off and school privacy measures. "We are gonna bring it to all 8 schools," Woodson said.

Arts Garage update: Marjorie Waldo, Arts Garage executive, reported increased attendance and community programming. She said the venue hosted roughly 300 performances, registered 31,700 attendees over the fiscal year, and supports emerging artists; Arts Garage also provided discounted rentals and scholarships for students.

True Vegan restaurant opening: Owners Billy Course and Chef Raheem Jones announced the Atlantic Avenue opening of True Vegan at 123 E. Atlantic Ave., said they hired more than 40 people (many Delray residents) and offered a 20% discount to city employees, police and fire. "We're really excited to be here and be part of the community," Course said.

Residents proposed downtown innovation/event hub: Several speakers offered unsolicited proposals to identify a city-owned building for an innovation or events hub to attract business tourism and revenue. Presenters said they would prepare written proposals and encouraged commissioners to direct staff to respond to submission requests.

Ending: The commission thanked community volunteers, encouraged donation and attendance at fundraising events, and asked staff to follow up with entrepreneurs who offered partnership proposals.