Gullah Geechee Historic Neighborhood CDC board approves $3,479,922 FY2026 budget; asks executive director for revenue plan

The Gullah Geechee Historic Neighborhood Community Development Corporation board approved its proposed fiscal year 2026 operating budget, a package the executive director described as an approximate 2% increase totaling $3,479,922.

The executive director told the board the request includes funding to add a senior project manager and a program coordinator to help run planned initiatives — including the Experience Gullah wayfinding app and lending and financial‑education programs — and maintains funding for land purchase and small‑business loan programs. He said the fiscal year begins July 1 and that the town council will consider the CDC’s request in May.

Board discussion focused on revenue and sustainability. One board member asked the director to return with a financial plan that emphasizes revenue generation, noting opportunities such as grant administration and potential equity partnerships tied to development. The director said the town is already providing in‑kind support, including marketing and communications assistance and shared office space, but acknowledged future conversations about support for staff positions will be necessary.

A motion to approve the FY2026 budget “as proposed by the executive director” was moved by a board member and seconded; the chair called for and received an affirmative voice vote. The motion passed and the director was authorized to move the proposal to the town for consideration.

Next steps: the board directed the executive director to prepare a revenue plan and continue coordination with the town’s grant administrator; the budget will proceed to the town council in May for final action.