Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Local Economic Development topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
City unveils 'Grow Deerfield Beach: Spend Local, Save Local' program to boost small businesses
Summary
The city presented "Grow Deerfield Beach: Spend Local, Save Local," a card-based local-purchase incentive program that requires participating businesses to hold a valid Deerfield Beach business tax receipt; the commission welcomed the plan and encouraged residents to get cards at City Hall, the pier and community centers.
City staff introduced "Grow Deerfield Beach: Spend Local, Save Local" during the Jan. 6 meeting as a city-led initiative to reward residents, workers and visitors who shop locally. The presenter described the program as "not just a discount program" but an economic strategy to keep dollars circulating within the city.
How it works: Residents can obtain a physical or digital Spend Local card at City Hall, the pier and the Tigner Center or through a QR link on the city website. Participating businesses must register through the city website and hold a valid Deerfield Beach business tax receipt; businesses create the promotional offer they wish to provide and receive a Grow Deerfield Beach window sticker for public recognition. The presenter emphasized the program's simplicity: "No apps, no registration, no complicated steps."
Why it matters: The consultant framed local spending as an economic multiplier; using a 1.6 multiplier example, the presenter illustrated how steady local purchases can generate sustained local economic activity and estimated illustrative annual impact scenarios to show the potential scale of benefit.
Commission response: Commissioners applauded the presentation and suggested the city itself participate in the program (for example, offering pier discounts to card-holders). The commission encouraged residents to scan the QR code, pick up cards at city locations and encouraged businesses to enroll.
Ending: The commission thanked staff for the presentation and encouraged residents and businesses to participate; the item required no formal action beyond presentation and public outreach.
