City Catalyst Grant Winners

Partnership program supports projects that strengthen Florida communities

by Scott Dudley, Florida League of Mayors and Beth Rawlins Business Watch

For the eighth year, the Florida League of Mayors (FLM) partnered with Business Watch to offer the City Catalyst Grants. The program supports projects that foster a sense of community and enhance the lives of city residents. The projects are often in partnership with local organizations, which makes the dollars and impacts go even further. All grants this year were for $2,500.

Applications are judged by current Business Watch members and former Mayors. Judges appreciate that cities create specialized opportunities to meet their community needs, and this year was no exception. Winning projects are scheduled for completion this winter. All the projects are creating something new outside, so citizens will have great opportunities in the cooler weather.

FLM and Business Watch announced the 2022 City Catalyst Grant winners and their projects at the Florida League of Cities (FLC) Annual Conference in Hollywood.

▸ The City of Apalachicola is expanding the reach of its Margaret Key Public Library through two projects. First, they have signed on with Little Free Library and plan to build two little libraries and place them in parks. The Library will contribute some free books and encourage the community to donate. Expansion of the little libraries to every Apalachicola park and green space is planned. The Library is also adding an enclosed outdoor bulletin board so the community can learn about programs.

Scott Singer (left), outgoing President of Florida League of Mayors, and Joe Kilsheimer, Business Watch Board Member and Consultant with Woodard & Curran, with the award for the City of Apalachicola.

Photo courtesy of Florida League of Cities

▸ Miami Shores Village is creating a partnership between their library and Parks and Recreation Department with a Story Walk. The Village is matching grant funds to install and market this program. Sixteen signs will be installed in a Village greenspace about every 8 feet. Children’s books will be re-created in full color in those stands, which allows the children of Miami Shores to “walk” through the story. The goal is to offer three to five children’s stories a year that encourage community engagement and a connection to one’s environment.

Mayor Sandra Harris accepts the award for Miami Shores Village.

Photo courtesy of Florida League of Cities

▸ The City of Sebring is supporting a citizen initiative through the nonprofit Highlands County Citizens with Voices to create a veterans memorial. The citizens have entered into a long-term lease with the City and started work on the memorial. The project is designed to expand upon another park built across the street. It offers another way to beautify the Washington Heights neighborhood and provide a safer environment.

Mayor John Shoop accepts the award for the City of Sebring.

Photo courtesy of Florida League of Cities

The FLM and Business Watch are very committed to sharing common-sense solutions and helping strengthen our communities. Both are proud to once again host the City Catalyst Grants Program. Congratulations to the winners!

Scott Dudley is Executive Director of the Florida League of Mayors and Director of Field Advocacy and Federal Affairs at the Florida League of Cities. Beth Rawlins is President of Business Watch. Business Watch connects businesses and local government officials, leaders and managers to open dialog and work toward common goals.