Delray Beach — The Delray Beach DDA agreed Monday to fund the SET Coalition’s 12 Days of Christmas activation on West Atlantic Avenue after an extended discussion about the grant amount and budget documentation.

Applicant Cynthia (representing SET Coalition) told the board she requested funding for the group’s December 18 street activation and related costs including portable restrooms, decorations, a DJ, insurance and police support. She said last year the coalition received $1,500 and that vendors and city charges (street closure, restrooms) had pushed this year’s needs higher.

Board discussion focused on fiscal prudence and precedent: commissioners asked whether the requested amount matched itemized vendor quotes and whether DDA staff should manage vendor contracts or pay vendors directly. Several board members said West Atlantic Avenue activations align with the DDA mission and should be supported; others said the board should require fuller budgets when requests exceed the usual $2,000 cap.

Outcome and details: The board approved the grant request on a roll call vote. Staff and board members asked the SET Coalition to work with DDA staff on a final line‑item budget and to confirm which city services (police, barricades, restroom rentals) will be invoiced to the city or the event producer.

Ending: The board asked staff to follow up with the SET Coalition to document expenses and to explore whether more of the activation’s contracted services can be booked through city or DDA procurement to improve transparency and cost control.