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Council directs RFP for nonprofit to run Harry T. Moore Social Services Center
Summary
After a six-month ad hoc review, the council voted unanimously to solicit proposals from nonprofits to operate the Harry T. Moore Social Services Center, citing underutilization, limited tenancy and transportation barriers identified by the committee.
The Titusville City Council voted unanimously on Aug. 11 to direct staff to issue a request for proposals to outsource management and maintenance of the Harry T. Moore Social Services Center.
Dr. Gina Beckles, chair of the city's Social Services Ad Hoc Committee, told the council the committee's recommendations fell into five areas: reduce direct city occupancy, expand flexible rental hours including evenings and weekends, pursue targeted outreach and marketing to attract nonprofit tenants, increase partnerships to address transportation barriers, and stage a grand reopening and rebranding of the facility. "The basic recommendations that we're making is that, number 1, the city downsize or eliminate city use of the facility… and outsource the management of the facilities to a social services organization," Dr. Beckles said.
Council members pressed staff on costs and next steps. Member Moscoso pointed to the committee's operational-budget figures, saying the center's FY2027 operating expense totaled more than $330,000 while only about $8,000 was recorded for community meals and special events, and asked whether a nonprofit could cover personnel costs that account for roughly $250,000 annually. City staff responded the city could pursue either a management agreement making the city landlord or a full divestiture, and that an RFP could be structured to clarify utility/maintenance responsibilities.
During public comment, Christina Stokes urged ongoing financial and grant support and urged partnerships with health and workforce organizations. "The committee recommends increasing public or private transportation programs through partnerships and providing information about transportation options," Stokes said, noting transportation had been raised repeatedly during public input.
Member Nelson moved to put out an RFP for nonprofits to manage the center; Vice Mayor Cole seconded the motion. The council approved the motion unanimously and directed staff to return with procurement documents and recommended terms for council review.
What happens next: staff will draft and release an RFP describing the city''s expectations and the requested operating model. The council signaled it expects the committee to weigh in on proposals and anticipated further discussion during the upcoming budget process about which tenant model and level of city subsidy, if any, the council wants to pursue.
