SUBJECT/RECOMMENDATION:
Title
Approve a Special Event Grant Funding Request for High Impact Funding from the Rotary Club of Clearwater Charities, Inc. in an amount not to exceed $30,000 for the Taste of Clearwater and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same.
Body
SUMMARY:
The purpose of this request is to approve High Impact Event Funding for the Taste of Clearwater, an event organized by the Rotary Club of Clearwater Charities, Inc. (Applicant).
Event Details
• Date: Saturday, May 31, 2025
• Time: 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM
• Location: Coachman Park (not including The BayCare Sound)
• Admission: Free, family-friendly
• Expected Attendance: 5,000-7,000
Event Features
The Taste of Clearwater is a Rotary-sponsored event designed to foster community engagement, highlight local businesses, and provide family-friendly entertainment. Attendees will experience:
• Live performances by local bands and musicians.
• Food tastings from various Clearwater-area restaurants and vendors.
• Booths featuring local businesses, artisans, and service providers.
• Interactive activities, including children’s play areas with bounce houses and games.
• Nonprofit and community organization booths sharing information about their programs.
• A Rotary Club booth showcasing its 100-year impact in Clearwater.
Proceeds from the event will support Rotary initiatives, including scholarships, reading programs, international clean water projects, community grants, and support for local public safety departments.
Funding Request
• Total Event Budget: $55,920.00
• Funding Request: $45,000 in High Impact Funding
• Applicant Contribution: 36.6% ($20,500) from third-party sources (sponsorships, vendor fees, and merchandise sales)
• City Fees: Estimated at 6,959.56 (calculated by Parks and Recreation staff) Which is the responsibility of the applicant to pay.
DDB Grant Request Policy Compliance
Under Section 3 of the DDB Grant Request Policy for High Impact Funding, the following criteria apply:
Estimated attendance exceeds 2,000.
Free and open to the public.
Organized by an entity with 2+ years of experience.
Applicant contribution meets the 20% threshold.
Events requesting over $30,000 must demonstrate quantifiable community benefits.
The applicant has submitted supporting documentation detailing their experience with past events and their positive community impact.
Staff Recommendation
Based on DDB policy, staff recommends approving $30,000 in funding for eligible direct costs and city fees.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
Funding for this grant will be allocated to the FY 24/25 Special Event line of the budget- 1829411-558600
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
DDB Strategy:
• Fund a Variety of Special Events throughout the DDB District
City’s Strategy:
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.
