SUBJECT/RECOMMENDATION:
Title
Approve a High Impact Grant funding request from Florida Best Promotion Inc. to support Salsa at the District - Halloween Edition on November 1, 2025, in an amount not to exceed $29,200 and authorize the appropriate officials to execute the same.
Body
SUMMARY:
Salsa at the District - Halloween Edition is a free, one-night cultural event scheduled for Friday, November 1, 2025, in Downtown Clearwater’s Station Square Park and the 500 block, from 6pm-11pm. This vibrant event will feature live Salsa orchestras, Latin DJs, dance lessons, cultural performances, and authentic Latin cuisine. Guests are encouraged to wear Halloween costumes and join in the festivities.
The event is designed to engage both local residents and regional visitors, with an expected attendance of 5,000. It targets the Latin dance and cultural community while promoting Downtown Clearwater as a destination for inclusive and high-energy public programming.
Salsa at the District directly supports Downtown revitalization by increasing pedestrian traffic, stimulating business activity, and strengthening Clearwater’s identity as a place for dynamic cultural experiences.
Key Features:
• Live Salsa music and performances
• Community dance lessons from local studios
• Latin food vendors and cultural activations
• Free and family-friendly atmosphere
• Local business engagement through extended hours and participation
Funding Request:
• Total Event Budget: $79,440.40
• Applicant Contribution: $15,530.40
• Third Party Contributions: $49,710.00 ($25,000 tentative pending approval of Visit St. Pete/Clearwater Grant)
• DDB Funding Requested: $30,000
• Estimated City Fees: $9,710.00- Calculated by Parks and Rec Staff. The applicant has been approved for the Parks and Rec High Impact Co-Sponsorship for in-kind city fees valued at an amount not to exceed $9,710.
DDB Grant Request Policy:
Under Section 3 of the DDB Grant Request Policy for Community Event Funding, the proposal meets all criteria:
• Attendance: Estimated 2,000+
• Accessibility: Free and open to the public
• Applicant Match: Exceeds minimum 20% threshold
• Supporting Materials: Impact summaries and event history available
Staff Recommendation:
This request aligns with the DDB’s mission to activate Downtown Clearwater and foster cultural and economic vitality. Staff recommends approval of funding in an amount not to exceed $29,200 to support eligible event costs for Salsa at the District - Halloween Edition.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
Funding will be allocated in FY 25/26 under the Special Event line of the budget - 1829411-558600
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
2.3 Promote Clearwater as a premier destination for entertainment, cultural experiences, tourism, and national sporting events.
3.1 Support neighborhood identity through services and programs that empower community pride and belonging.
