See what’s happening this month.

Click here to see what’s happening next.

Upcoming activities at the Gulfport Library.

Click here to see all classes and activities.

Click here fo weekly dance schedule.

Click here to read more.

Click here to see upcoming events.

City of Gulfport Flood Zone Permitting Packet and Appeal Process

Mayor

Karen Love

Webpage

Email

826-7208

Ward 1

April Thanos

Webpage

Email

826-7138

Ward 2

Marlene Shaw

Webpage

Email

826-7311

Ward 3

Cosi

Jackson

Webpage

Email

826-7209

Ward 4 Nancy

Earley

Webpage

Email

826-7355

Good Day Gulfport!

I hope everyone had a great weekend and is feeling energized for the week ahead. In addition to connecting with residents by phone and email, I had the honor of being a panelist at the State of Our Beaches forum in Madeira Beach. It was a great chance to let others know that Gulfport is open for business, connect with fellow mayors, and share lessons learned from our communities.

A huge shoutout to Gulfport Grassroots and Keep Pinellas Beautiful for organizing a resident-led cleanup in the marina area! Volunteers worked hard to remove small debris like glass, metal, tile, and plastics—keeping them out of the bay. They also uncovered and cleared several storm drains, which is a big help, especially in areas prone to flooding.

This Tuesday evening (6–8 PM at the Neighborhood Center), we’ll hold our second meeting for the volunteer team creating Gulfport’s Post-Storm Recovery Handbook. This is a space for storm survivors to share practical advice that can help future generations. If you have publishing skills or just want to help, we’d love to see you there.

Two quick requests:

Check your sidewalk – Is your car or trailer hitch blocking it? Let’s keep it clear for pedestrians.

Look at your landscaping – Is it covering or hanging over the sidewalk, or creating a tripping hazard? Please trim it back so neighbors can safely walk, stroll, roll, or bike through our community.

Thanks for helping keep Gulfport safe and beautiful.

Mayor Love

Fun in the Sun Day was full of excitement last weekend with egg hunts, rock wall climbing, touch a trucks, helicopter landings and balloon animals. Thank you to all the organizations who participated.

City of Gulfport: Meetings Calendar May 2025

• May 6, 2025 – Council Meeting – 6:00pm
• May 7, 2025 – Planning and Zoning Board – Cancelled
• May 13, 2025 – Senior Advisory Committee – 8:00am – Senior Center – 5501 27th Avenue South
• May 14, 2025 – Board of Adjustment – 6:00pm
• May 15, 2025 – Special Magistrate – 9:30am -City Hall Council Chambers – 2401 53rd Street South, Gulfport, Florida 33707
• May 20, 2025 – Council Meeting – 6:00 pm
• May 26, 2025 – City Hall Closed – Memorial Day  

All meetings are open to the public and are held in the City Hall, City Council Chambers, 2401 53rd Street South, In Person, unless otherwise noted. Meetings may occasionally be added, cancelled or rescheduled after this list is published. Please check the city’s website https://mygulfport.us for updated information.

Monday, April 28th | 10:15 a.m.

Gulfport Public Library, 5501 28th Ave. S.

Join us for a weekly knitting and crochet group! Bring your current project, start something new, learn a new skill, and meet other crafters! Don’t know how to knit or crochet? That’s ok, we can help you get started. We will be meeting in the Reading Garden or Study Room from 2/3 – 4/14. Call 727-893-1074 for additional information.

Tuesday, April 29th | 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Downtown Waterfront District, Beach Blvd. S.

The Gulfport Tuesday Fresh Market is a year-round open-air market held in Gulfport’s Waterfront District on Beach Blvd. below 28th Ave. S., 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., October – May & 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., June – September. It also offers a variety of independent shops, boutiques, galleries, its own beach and a large cluster of restaurants, all within easy walking distance. The Fresh Market offers visitors the opportunity for a relaxing day trip in a small town full of “Old Florida” charms.

Thursday, May 1st | 6 – 8 p.m.

Gulfport Senior Center, 5501 27th Ave. S.

The Italian American Society of St. Petersburg would like to invite you to our free Italian language classes held at the Gulfport Senior Center. We offer beginner, intermediate and advanced classes for students of all ages. The classes are held on Thursday evenings 6 – 8 pm. You do not have to be a member of the society to participate, but we highly recommend it! Members get discounts at area restaurants, businesses and services like Pia’s Trattoria! For more information please visit our website, Facebook and Instagram or send your questions to info@iasosp.org.

Friday, May 2nd | 3:30 p.m.

Tomlinson Park Green Space (corner of 54th St. S. & Tangerine Ave. S.)

Celebrate Arbor Day with us on Friday, May 2 at 3:30 PM as we come together to plant a beautiful Quercus virginiana “Live Oak” tree at Tomlinson Park Green Space (corner of 54th St. S. & Tangerine Ave. S.)! This family-friendly event welcomes everyone to join in helping the City of Gulfport grow a greener future. Attendees will have the chance to receive a free Southern Magnolia tree and learn more about both the Live Oak and Southern Magnolia species from the Gulfport Recreation School Year Childcare Program. Enjoy refreshments provided by the Gulfport Teen Council, and be part of this inspiring community effort.

For more information, please call 727-729-1297 or visit, https://mygulfport.us/recreation/parks/trees/treecity

Friday, May 2nd | 5 – 9 p.m.

Beach Blvd. S. (Waterfront District)

Formally known as Art Walk on the first Friday and IndieFaire on the third Saturday, these recurring monthly events will launch for 2025 branded as the Gulfport Night Market. The night market concept unites the energy of the former events, offering an evening marketplace experience with vibrant local offerings from local makers, artisans, and small business vendors to engage the community and visitors as they shop, stroll, and sip in beautiful downtown Gulfport.

Friday, May 2nd | 6 – 8 p.m.

Catherine Hickman Theater, 5501 27th Ave. S.

Join us for the Theater Opening Art Reception & Exhibit presented by the Women’s Caucus for Art. This powerful exhibit brings together WCA artists who explore fresh metaphors around motherhood, nature, and the environment. Through evocative visual storytelling, the show delves into the symbolic connections between Mother, Mother Nature, and Mother Earth. With a spirit rooted in environmental activism, the artwork reflects a deep commitment to care, nurturing, and healing—both of people and the planet. The exhibition aims to inspire thoughtful dialogue and a renewed sense of unity with nature, transcending political boundaries to highlight our shared responsibility.

Saturday, May 3rd | 12 – 4 p.m.

Clymer Park (Gulfport Food Forest)

23rd Ave. S. & Beach Blvd. S.

Gulfport will join the global community in celebrating World Labyrinth Day with the theme “We Walk as One for Peace.” This international event connects individuals across continents through the universal practice of walking labyrinths, fostering unity, peace, and mindfulness. Hosted by volunteers and sponsored by the City of Gulfport and other organizations, the event invites participants of all ages and backgrounds to experience the transformative power of labyrinth walking. Under the shade of the Gulfport Food Forest oak trees, participants will embark on a journey of self-reflection, community bonding, and global solidarity as they walk a labyrinth made from natural materials. Musician Berkeley Grimball will enhance the experience with beautiful music on his Pod Harp, and the community walk will be followed by dancing and drumming with Hip Expressions belly dancers, as well as other labyrinth-related activities.

Saturday, May 3rd | 1 – 6:30 p.m.

Gulfport Yacht Club, 4638 Del Rio Way S.

Club races (weather permitting) on the First and Third Saturday of the month on Boca Ciega Bay. Any DP-N rated boat up to 25 feet is welcome and we have a strong beach multihull presence (A-cat, Formula 18, Formula 16, Hobie 16, Weta etc.).

Registration: Simply show up on a race day and sign in. Guests wishing to race their boats will pay $10.00 per boat and must have proof of liability insurance. After racing we hang out enjoying conversations and food at our club house.

Monday, May 5th | 6 – 7:30 p.m.

49th Street Neighborhood Center, 1617 49th St. S.

You are invited to the next Fusion 49th General Meeting, where you can sign up to help with various committees, including the Organization Committee, Design Committee, Economic Vitality Committee, and Promotions Committee. For qualifications and more information, please contact Nancy Dunham at 727-710-6676 or reach out to Fancy Nancy Professional Services.

Saturday, May 10th | 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

49th Street Neighborhood Center, 1617 49th St. S.

The US Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 7-16 in Gulfport will hold a Recreational Boating Course on the second Saturday of every month at the CGA Training Building 3120 Miriam St. South in Gulfport. The 8 hour course includes subjects as Boat Nomenclature, Before you get underway, Navigating the Waterway, updated Legal Requires, Boating equipment and emergencies are a few of the subjects, and qualifies for the Florida Boating ID Card as well. Cost is $40 per person. Contact Marty Richardson to reserve a seat at 630-674-5352 or merichardsonjr@att.net.

Saturday, May 10th | 7:30 – 9:30 p.m.

Catherine Hickman Theater, 5501 27th Ave. S.

Come celebrate Mother’s Day in the fun, unique, village of Gulfport, FL!  The Catherine A. Hickman Theater is an intimate venue offering beer, wine, hard seltzer and snacks. Enjoy a dinner at one of  Gulfport’s fine restaurants and finish with music and laughter! The performance features songs from Chicago, Cabaret, Aida, Miss Saigon, Grease, and more, with Danny Beal and the Swinging Seven Little Big Band.

Tuesday, May 13th | 1 p.m.

Gulfport Public Library, 5501 28th Ave. S.

Join their child advocacy team! The Florida Guardian ad Litem Office represents abused, abandoned and neglected children in the courtroom and community. A representative provides information and answers questions for individuals interested in volunteering. FMI, contact Anita Myers, email Anita.Myers@gal.fl.gov or visit www.guardianadlitem.org.

Wednesday, May 14th | 6 p.m.

Every second Wednesday of each month

Scout Hall, 5315 28th Ave. S.

For more information, please contact Mr. Jim Wright Neighborhood Watch Coordinator at 727-893-1022 or jwright@mygulfport.us.

Thursday, May 15th | 6 p.m.

Gulfport Public Library, 5501 28th Ave. S.

Christa Fairbrother, Gulfport Poet Laureate, presents a monthly program. Everyone is invited to come and share their poems. Donations received during event benefit the Circle of Friends of the Gulfport Library for support of Library programs. Contact: Christa Fairbrother, 727-418-7623.

Saturday, May 17th | 9 – 11 a.m.

49th Street Neighborhood Center, 1617 49th St. S.

The role of trees and green spaces within the City of Gulfport’s built and natural environment is of great significance. These natural entities serve as an important promoter of social, economic, and environmental health. Help the City of Gulfport by doing your part by planting a tree in your very own yard! 

Saturday, May 17th | 5 – 9 p.m.

Beach Blvd. S. (Waterfront District)

Formally known as Art Walk on the first Friday and IndieFaire on the third Saturday, these recurring monthly events will launch for 2025 branded as the Gulfport Night Market. The night market concept unites the energy of the former events, offering an evening marketplace experience with vibrant local offerings from local makers, artisans, and small business vendors to engage the community and visitors as they shop, stroll, and sip in beautiful downtown Gulfport.

Tuesday, May 20th | 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

GMC Booth, 3037 Beach Blvd. S.

Gulfport City Council will be hosting an opportunity, every third Tuesday of the month, for residents to get to know their Councilmember, ask questions, and provide comment.

For more information, please call City of Gulfport Councilmember, Ward 1 Representative, April Thanos at (727) 826-7138.

Wednesday, May 21st | 10:15 a.m.

Gulfport Public Library, 5501 28th Ave. S.

Nourish your body and spirit with mindful movement, breath work, and meditation. This slow-paced class welcomes all levels and each month will feature a different set of postures. Please bring props if you want them. The class is taught by Christa Fairbrother from Bee Content Yoga, she is a RYT and Certified Yoga for Arthritis Instructor.

Thursday, May 22nd | 1 p.m.

Gulfport Public Library, 5501 28th Ave. S.

Join us for our monthly COF Presents! This month a representative from the Seaside Seabird Sanctuary will be visiting the library. We will learn about their work in rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing native birds! Learn about their resident birds and actions we can take to help our avian neighbors thrive in the wild. There will be time for Q&A and a meet and greet with the avian ambassadors after the presentation. Sponsored by the Circle of Friends.

Gulfport City Hall & Facilities will be Closed in Observance.

Monday, May 26th | 2:30 – 3:30 p.m.

Veteran’s Park, 5350 31st Ave. S.

Join us at Veterans Park to honor and commemorate Memorial Day. This special gathering is a time to pay tribute to the brave men and women who served our country with dedication and sacrifice. Together, we will reflect on their courage, express our gratitude, and remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Let us come together as a community to uphold the spirit of patriotism and honor their memory.

Thursday, May 29th | 6 – 8 p.m.

Catherine Hickman Theater, 5501 27th Ave. S.

The Atlantic basin hurricane season begins June 1. Get informed to be prepared during the City of Gulfport’s Annual Hurricane Preparedness Seminar. This informative seminar is free and open to the public. Attendees can enjoy a slice of pizza and a drink for $3. For more information or to become a hurricane related vendor, call 729-1297 or email kossola@mygulfport.us.

Thursday, May 29th | 7 p.m.

Gulfport Public Library, 5501 28th Ave. S.

Join us for a musical performance by the SIDEWALK POETS. This local band will create a fun and entertaining atmosphere through harmonized singing. This program is funded by a grant from The Hello In There Foundation awarded to the Circle of Friends of the Gulfport Public Library. 

View the Museum’s online collection here.

See the latest report here.

Check out our live streaming cameras here!

Online access is provided at the following link.

View and pay Utility & Marina Billing accounts online here.

Click here to view the Gulfport Employee Directory.

Understanding the FEMA 50% Rule

Rebuilding After Storm Damage

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is encouraging disaster loan recipients in Florida to apply for additional funds to protect their homes and businesses from future storms.

To apply online visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has approved more than $1.4 billion in federal disaster loans to support Florida businesses, nonprofits, homeowners, and renters affected by Hurricane Helene occurring on Sept. 23 through Oct. 7 and Milton occurring on Oct. 5 through Nov. 2, 2024. As of April 17, 2025, the SBA has provided over $460 million to businesses/EIDL and over $1 billion to residents in the wake of this disaster.

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has reopened and extended the physical damage loan applications. Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is still available to small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations for working capital needs caused by the disaster. EIDLs are available regardless of whether the organization suffered any physical property damage and may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

The City of Gulfport Parks and Recreation Department has announced that the playground at Chase Park is now closed as of Tuesday, April 15, 2025, for the demolition of the existing structure and the construction of a brand-new playground.

Due to the scope of the project and to ensure public safety, the renovation timeline has been extended. The playground will remain closed for approximately two weeks, weather permitting, with an anticipated reopening in late April. The area will be completely inaccessible to the public throughout the duration of the work.

The Gulfport Arts Center will be hosting a collage themed Community Art Show this summer!

The Gulfport Public Arts Center is looking for expressive collage work by local artists for an ALL COLLAGE group art showcase! Work can be constructed of any material and may pertain to any subject matter, as long as it is an original work within the medium of collage or assemblage. Submission is FREE and open to the public. There is no limit to the amount of works that may be submitted per artist. All ages, skill levels, and perspectives are encouraged to submit their work for consideration.

If you would like to submit a piece of artwork to be considered for the show, please email a photo to ArtsCenter@mygulfport.us. Submission must be received by 5/20 for consideration in the show.

Art work will be on display at the Gulfport Arts Center from 5/30/25 – 7/16/25. A reception will be held on Friday, 5/30/25 from 5:30PM – 7:00PM. Light refreshments will be served. You may also visit the Arts Center during Open Studio Hours to see the show. Tuesdays, 3 – 7 p.m., Wednesdays, 3 – 7 p.m., and the first and third Saturday, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Join the New Horizons Band of Gulfport this spring and rediscover the joy of making music! Whether you haven’t played since high school or you’re a seasoned retiree, there’s a seat waiting for you, no audition required. We welcome brass, woodwind, and percussion players of all skill levels who simply love music and want to play. Rehearsals start Tuesday, May 6, 2025, from 6 PM to 8 PM at the Gulfport Senior Center, 5501 27th Ave. S. Our weekly gatherings are fun, educational, and low-pressure, with several public concerts throughout the year. The New Horizons Band of Gulfport is a non-profit organization and part of the New Horizons International Music Association, dedicated to giving adults a second chance to enjoy music-making. Learn more at www.newhorizonsbandgulfport.org or email us at nhbgulfport@hotmail.com.

Community Development Department Updates on Permitting and Substantial Damage Estimates

The City of Gulfport’s Community Development Department is providing the following updates made in permitting, inspections, and substantial damage estimates.

Since September 27, 2024, the department has processed 1,501 permit applications, with 74 currently under review and 1,335 issued across various categories, including building, electrical, plumbing, and more.

New FLC Scholarship Supports Future City Leaders

The Florida League of Cities has launched the Public Service Pathways Scholarship, offering up to five $5,000 awards to students pursuing careers in municipal government.

In addition to the scholarship, recipients will gain exclusive career development opportunities, including a job shadow day with city leaders.

Eligible students must apply by May 1, 2025, and be enrolled in a Florida-based higher education program for the 2025 school year.

Pinellas County Hurricane Home Repair Program

The Hurricane Home Repair Program helps income eligible homeowners impacted by Hurricane Helene or Milton pay for storm repairs not covered by insurance or FEMA. Eligible residents may receive up to $30,000 in grant funding as reimbursement or direct payment for eligible home repairs. Funding is provided by Florida’s State Housing Initiatives Partnership Program (SHIP) and Pinellas County. These statewide SHIP funds are designated to help local governments provide affordable housing opportunities and have specific limits on homeowner income and total property value.

The City of Gulfport has extended the building permit fee waiver for SDE properties until May 6, 2025. Those not qualifying will be required to pay fees starting April 1.

For more information or to apply for a permit, please visit the Gulfport Building Department at https://mygulfport.us/community-development/.

Rebuild Florida is Florida’s long-term disaster recovery effort, committed to rebuilding impacted communities stronger so they are more resilient to future storms.

The Hurricane Ian Rebuild Florida Housing Repair and Replacement Program is a state program launched with federal funding to repair, rebuild, or replace eligible homes with remaining damage from Hurricane Ian.

If you were impacted by Hurricanes Helene or Milton, you may still be eligible for assistance under the Hurricane Ian Housing Repair and Replacement Program.

Rebuild Florida is currently accepting applications. Priority will be given to homeowners with a low income and households that include children under 18, seniors aged 62 and older, or individuals with disabilities.

Improving Lives Through the Power of Information & Hope

At First Contact, our goal is to have a community that is connected and informed regarding critical health and human service information for those who need help and those who are willing to volunteer or donate their time to local community agencies.

Care About Me confidentially helps all residents of all ages, insured or not, by eliminating the guesswork or need to search for local behavioral health services by creating a space where residents or family members of individuals in non-crisis can call in, speak directly with experienced behavioral health specialists who can triage their needs, and get an appointment scheduled with a local provider.

For more information, visit https://careaboutme.org or call 1-888-431-1998.

• Monday & Tuesday: Closed
• Wednesday: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
• Thursday: 12 – 4 p.m.
• Friday: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
• Saturday: Noon – 4 p.m. (1st and 3rd Saturdays)
• Sunday: Closed

727-201-8687 | historymuseum@mygulfport.us

Gulfport Arts Center, 2726 54th St. S.

• Tuesday: 3 – 7 p.m
• Wednesday: 3 p.m. – 7 p.m.
• Saturday: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. (1st and 3rd Saturdays only)

artscenter@mygulfport.us | https://mygulfport.us/art-center

https://www.facebook.com/gulfportartscenter

Gulfport provides once-a-week collection of household recyclables. Curbside service is provided to all single-family and duplex homes, apartment/condo complexes, mobile home parks and smaller businesses. Items collected are plastic containers and jugs, steel cans, aluminum cans, mixed paper, cardboard and newspaper.

A drop-off center is located at the Neighborhood Center, 1617 49th Street South, for glass containers (all colors), mixed paper, and cardboard. It is open 24 hours / 7 days a week.For more information, visit https://mygulfport.us/public-works-department.

City of Gulfport Special Events Trolley/WRD Looper

The City of Gulfport Special Events Trolley/Waterfront Redevelopment District (WRD) Looper services large-scale special events and the First Friday and Third Saturday ArtWalks from 5 to 9 p.m. throughout the year.

For more information and to view all of the Loopers convenient pickup spots, please visit https://mygulfport.us/trolley/.

The Gulfport Public Works Department located at the 49th Street Neighborhood Center (1617 49th St. S.) is an official collection site for rechargeable batteries!

For more information, please call 727-893-1089 or visit https://mygulfport.us/public-works-department/.

The City of Gulfport Private Waterline and Sewer Lateral Replacement Assistance Program offers financial reimbursement after the replacement of a deteriorated residential waterline or sewer lateral. City Utilities residential water or sewer customers are eligible for a rebate of 50% up to $3,500.00 after the purchase, installation, and inspection of failing waterlines or sewer lateral between the home connection and the city connection.

The City of Gulfport Senior Center’s Telephone Reassurance Program is a free service for Gulfport Residents 50 years of age or older. Volunteers provide daily phone calls to registered members and provide comfort, security, and peace of mind to members and families.

Registration is simple and free. If you or someone you know could benefit from this service during this difficult time, please call (727) 893-2237 and register today.

GEMS door-to-door transportation has provided independence & freedom to elderly and disabled residents of Gulfport for over 40 years.

Any Gulfport residents 55 & older or residents with a disability can take advantage of GEMS door to door service for a yearly membership of $70 plus $2 per one-way trip. For more information, call 893-2242.

Resources for Renters

Know your rights and where to get help when making rental decisions. This page is designed to help people who are struggling with the rising cost of housing find available help and learn about their rights as a renter. You can also find information on assistance with homeownership.

5501 27th Ave. S. | 727-893-5657

Monday: 8 a.m. – 7 p.m., Tuesday – Thursday: 8 a.m. – 9 p.m., Friday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

The Gulfport Multipurpose Senior Center actively seeks to support the independence and increased quality of life of its participants by encouraging involvement in programs and activities that promote health, welfare, safety and dignity.

The Gulfport Senior Center is Gulfport’s trusted leader in providing senior services that empower older adults to live life to the fullest. The Senior Center is a hub and gathering place for seniors to be socially engaged, physically challenged, and cognitively stimulated. It also serves as a clearinghouse for older adults to receive community resources and social services that help them maintain their independence and quality of life.

Required Registration is easy and available for all individuals 50 years of age or older. Free for Gulfport Residents and only $50 per year for non-Residents. Don’t wait, be a part of the club today!

2401 53rd St. S. | 727-893-1016

Monday – Friday, 8am–4:30pm

The City’s Utility Customer Service Department is located at the City Hall Complex. You can drop your utility payment off during normal business hours at the Customer Service window, and after hours you may drop payments at the drop box located by the front door of the City Hall Complex. When paying your utility bill in person or dropping off the payment, please bring or enclose your utility stub to ensure accurate payment processing.

The City of Gulfport takes tremendous pride in its park system. The Parks Division improves and maintains the quality of life within the community in environmental landscaping and turf maintenance. The division continues to create safe and aesthetically pleasing recreational facilities for all to enjoy. Please visit https://mygulfport.us/recreation/parks/ for more information.