The approved budget dedicates $3.13 million to the downtown Apopka trail project, including the creation of a 10-foot wide path that will serve as both a bike trail and sidewalk. This project aims to enhance connectivity and accessibility within the community, and the trail’s first phase has already been selected for bidding. The city council will review this bid in its upcoming agenda.

Additionally, the budget includes allocations for various community-oriented programs and infrastructure improvements. $225,000 is set aside for downtown furniture such as benches, trash cans, and bike racks, while $20,000 will go toward historical recognition programs. The community-oriented policing program within the CRA area has received an increase in funding from $100,000 to $125,000 to ensure more patrolling hours by police officers.

Other notable budget items include $50,000 for the downtown park adjacent to City Hall, $5,500 for the annual state-required audit, and $50,000 for new trail portions. There are also seven assistance programs funded within the CRA, addressing needs such as renovation assistance, business impact assistance, and demolition programs.

A new member, John Dreo, introduced himself to the committee, sharing his extensive experience in local government, including his role as a city manager in multiple cities. Dreo expressed his enthusiasm for contributing to the CRA and improving its productivity.