CRA Approves funds for Springtime Tallahassee Festival

Leon County’s Community Redevelopment Agency has motioned to grant Springtime Tallahassee Inc. $25,000 for the expansion of the Springtime Festival. Springtime Tallahassee plans to expand the event to the night before. The money will go toward artist’s fees.

Roxanne Manning, CRA Executive Director, presented the approval of the Special Grant Funding for Springtime Tallahassee.

The CRA Statement of Issue noted: “In addition to local residents, the festival is estimated to attract approximately 15,000 visitors to Tallahassee, which equates to over 900 room nights booked and an estimated economic impact of over $5,000,000 in Leon County.”

The County’s marketing research firm Kerr & Downs Research will do an economic impact study to confirm the fiscal impact of the one night event.

Kristin Dozier County Commissioner, District 5, shared some concerns regarding the request for funds versus the CRA’s initial responsibilities.

“It’s hard for me to say this because I do support the event but I think it’s our responsibility to make sure we have what is expected of these dollars,” said Dozier. She went on to say, “I do believe that we should stay consistent. These dollars should be applied to capital improvements within the district.”

Commissioner Nancy Miller, Seat 3, reiterated the CRA’s call to action.

“This money is primarily dedicated to reconstruction, and I do understand that this is a one time event. I think this group [Springtime Tallahassee] has had a proven history and they are branching out. Because this is a one-time request, I’m going to support the item,” Miller said.

There have been several requests to the CRA to fund projects outside of its duties. Commissioner Curtis Richardson – who spoke via a conference call – suggested the CRA should have a retreat to discuss what agency provides.

“It doesn’t sound like everybody is clear on who we [the CRA] are, and what we’re trying to accomplish, because we can’t be everything to everybody. We don’t have the money to do it,” said Richardson

Springtime Tallahassee has a history dating back over 45 years. Mayor Andrew Gillum took a broader look at the request.

“My motion is in support of it,” said Mayor Gillum.

Gillum note he asked Florida A&M President Elmira Mangum to let The Marching 100 to lead this year’s parade. The 100 will not lead the parade because they will be performing at Carnegie Hall in New York City that Saturday.

The 2015 Springtime Tallahassee Festival will begin March 28.

For more information about Springtime Tallahassee visit: www.springtimetallahassee.com