Issues

 

Community Development Department

The city purchased new software to streamline the permitting process and the staff has been trained. This was a start to better days but unfortunately we have been hit by three hurricanes, resulting in devastation for many of our residents and businesses. Hundreds of permits are needed and the process is still not clear or streamlined. We need to:

Enhance Communication: Establish consistent, community-wide communications from the permitting department to keep residents informed and engaged.

Proactive Solutions: Develop a planning and zoning department that anticipates and addresses the unique needs of our coastal city, offering clear options and solutions to residents.

Streamline Operations: Prioritize streamlining the department's processes to improve efficiency and reduce frustration for residents.

Focus on Customer Service: Place a strong emphasis on customer service to build trust and facilitate Gulfport’s full recovery and growth.

 

Marina

Lots of time and money were spent gathering resident feedback regarding a plan for our marina. What would we want if we were to suffer severe damage from a storm and have to rebuild as well as what improvements would the residents welcome? The message at the meeting was loud and clear for folks who were in attendance. Of course, none of us knew how close we were to the hurricane beatings we took this year. Our council must be willing to consider the wishes of the residents before implementing a recovery plan for the future of the marina. Resident feedback includes:

Increase Boat Trailer Parking: Address the need for more designated parking for boat trailers to prevent them from being parked on residential streets.

Add Bathrooms: Install public bathrooms in the southern area near the proposed living shoreline to enhance accessibility and usability.

Avoid Overdevelopment: Respect residents' preference to avoid additional commercial development in the marina area.

Revisit Existing Plans: Review the information and feedback already collected to create actionable solutions.

Host a Town Hall Meeting: Organize a city-led town hall meeting to engage residents and gather input on the marina’s recovery plan.

Prioritize Resident Input: Ensure the council considers the wishes of the community before implementing a long-term recovery plan for the marina.

Boaters
As the "Gateway to the Gulf," we must welcome and accept our boaters who are compliant. 

Welcome Responsible Boaters: Recognize and support compliant, responsible, and knowledgeable visiting boaters while distinguishing them from those who are not.

Enhance Marine Safety: Establish a dedicated marine officer to enforce safety regulations regularly and promote a safe, welcoming environment for all boaters.

Now I want to hear from you! Please let me know what you think the biggest city issues are. I truly want to hear from you.

 

Please visit the Love4gulfport YouTube channel for additional responses to residents' questions.

Ideally, during what hours would you like me to have office hours (eg, once a week)?

How would you like to receive communications from the mayor?

Please contact me through email, Love4gulfport@gmail.com