About

Greetings Conference Attendees,

Welcome to Tampa and the 2024 Florida Redevelopment Association’s Annual Conference!
Thank you for attending this year’s conference. I encourage each of you to take full advantage of all the learning and networking opportunities while you are in Tampa. I am certain you will find the program filled with topics that are informative and relevant. This year’s conference is made possible through the efforts and commitment of our conference committee, guest speakers, mobile tour guides, sponsors and exhibitors and, of course, YOU! With your support and partnership, the FRA annual conference continues to be a huge success.

Community redevelopment agencies continue to play a vital role in improving our communities and meeting the needs of our citizens. This year has been about “strengthening communities” as we work together to achieve our collective goals to make a positive difference. As I learn about the various programs and projects which CRAs support statewide, it reinforces my belief that redevelopment is a powerful tool for positive change. As professionals, we know that redevelopment work is not easy, but it is certainly rewarding. In addition, redevelopment does not happen overnight but over time. I commend all of you that work each day to bring improvements to your communities. The work we do as redevelopers is extremely challenging, but it takes true dedication from individuals like you to make a difference. Remember, “Without a sense of caring, there can be no sense of community.” (Anthony J D’Angelo).

It has truly been an honor to serve as your President this past year and to work with an incredible board and staff who are dedicated to supporting our members through knowledge, networking and resources. I wish to thank our partner, the Florida League of Cities, for continuously providing support and assistance to our efforts. I am deeply appreciative to Jeff Blomeley and Merrily Bennett, whose guidance has helped us have a successful year.

Thank you for the opportunity to serve you!
Sincerely,

Brenda Thrower, MPA, MURP, FRA-RA
FRA President

Ken Thomas, MPA, FRA-RP
2022-2023 FRA President

Laura Canary, Inspire Placemaking
Deena Drumgo, City of Lake Wales
Mary Estime-Irvin, North Miami
Carolyn Homer, City of Dunedin
Michele Hylton-Terry, Fort Myers, CRA
Robert Ironsmith, City of Dunedin

Denise Pennell, Westgate CRA
Jamie Perkins, City of St. Augustine
C. Howard Smith, City of Bartow CRA
Ken Thomas, Daytona Beach
Brenda Thrower, City of Tampa
Christine Tibbs, Delray Beach CRA

The Florida Redevelopment Association invites you to the 2024 Annual FRA Conference in Tampa, Florida from October 22-25 at the Tampa Marriott Water Street Hotel.

The conference is an opportunity for redevelopment professionals, elected officials and appointed officials who oversee administering redevelopment (economic development) programs in Florida cities and counties and community redevelopment agencies/CRAs who have separate, dedicated trust funds that can be spent on redevelopment projects to meet in person.

Attendees at the conference will have opportunities to enhance leadership skills, learn from municipal experts, share ideas with peers, discuss strategies for Florida’s future and hear about the latest in products and services for redevelopment projects. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn, network and share.