Jason DuCré

This document is a public notice announcing a second 30-day comment period for proposed substantial amendments to previously approved Consolidated Plans and Prior Year Action Plans. The amendments pertain to the reprogramming of unspent Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnership (HOME) funds spanning the 2017-2024 period. The primary objective is to reallocate these federal funds and align goals and strategies across the Action Plans with the Consolidated Plans to ensure accurate future reporting.

This document outlines a substantial amendment to the City of Gulfport's 2017-2024 Consolidated Plans and Annual Action Plans, specifically focusing on the reprogramming of unspent Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnerships (HOME) funds. The amendment details the reallocation of previously unspent funds from 2017-2024 to support new programs and activities addressing identified community needs. It also includes changes to program years and the process for citizen participation.

The proposed budget for the City of Gulfport includes multiple funds such as the General Fund, Enterprise Funds, Special Revenue Funds, Capital Projects, Debt Service, and Internal Service funds. The city-wide fund balance is projected to be $67 million by September 30, 2026. The General Fund includes revenues from property tax, sales tax, licenses and permits, franchise fees, and gaming fees. Enterprise Funds cover Water Sewer Operations, Solid Waste, Harbor Operations, and Harbor Lights. Special Revenue Funds include Disaster Relief, Community Development, Opioid Settlement, Police and Fire Retirement, and other specialized funds. Capital Projects are allocated across City Government, Water Sewer, ARPA, MIMA Bond, and MIMA Use Tax Receipts. The budget also details debt service and internal service funds for employee health insurance and claims contingency.

The council approved a resolution awarding the contract for Fire Station No. 7. There was a discussion regarding the preservation of oak trees at the site, including the removal of a dead water oak and another live oak under a power line, with plans to retain and preserve the remaining trees in a parkway. The pavement design, including thickness and reinforcement, was discussed to support heavy fire trucks. The turning radius requirements for fire trucks, especially the ladder truck serving beach condos, were considered in relation to tree removal and site design. A tree protection plan was in place during design and construction.

The City Council heard testimony regarding the Markham Building. The council discussed the current position of the city and what's involved in that position, environmental compliances and Paramount properties. An inspection was conducted at 2301 14th Street. The inspection report identified deteriorated teachers to the building, remnants and materials all over the Pharaoh. There is no electricity in the building. There was also discussion of uninvited persons and graffiti.