SUBJECT/RECOMMENDATION:
Title
Approve a High Impact Grant funding request from Intensity Academy to produce a two-day fall event, Fall Y’All, at Coachman Park on October 4 & 5, 2025, in an amount not to exceed $30,000 and authorize the appropriate officials to execute the same.
Body
SUMMARY:
Intensity Academy will produce Fall Y’All, a vibrant two-day fall event at Coachman Park on October 4 & 5, 2025. Designed to foster community spirit and highlight Downtown Clearwater as a lively, family-friendly destination, the event is expected to attract approximately 1,500 attendees per day.
Planned programming includes:
• The Little Miss and Little Sir Pumpkin Contests with prizes
• Live music performances and interactive pumpkin decorating stations
• Appearances by festive costumed characters
• A Kids Zone filled with games, contests, and entertainment
• Food trucks featuring fall treats
• Local vendors offering unique crafts and seasonal goods
Set within multiple zones of Coachman Park, including The Green, Lower and Upper Plaza, Cleveland Street Extension, and Bay walk Promenade-the event will run from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM each day.
This event is intended to bring residents together, draw regional audiences, and boost visibility and sales for downtown businesses. The warm, inclusive atmosphere will not only energize the city center during the fall season but also encourage repeat visitation and ongoing community engagement.
Funding Request:
• Total Event Budget: $36,586.60
• Applicant Contribution: $14,000 (38.28%)
• DDB Funding Requested: $30,000
• Estimated City Fees: $10,125.00 (estimated by parks and rec. staff)
DDB Grant Request Policy:
Under Section 3 of the DDB Grant Request Policy for High Impact Event Funding, the proposal meets all criteria:
• Attendance: Estimated +2000 more
• Accessibility: Free and open to the public
• Applicant Match: Contribution meets the minimum 20% threshold
• Supporting Materials: Past event summaries and impact assessments provided
Staff Recommendation:
The request aligns with both the DDB’s mission and the City’s Strategic Plan, and staff recommends approval in an amount not to exceed $30,000 for eligible direct costs and city fees
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
Funding for this grant will be allocated in FY 25/26. 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.
