Author Archives: RMA (Redevelopment Management Associates)

RMA Joins RVi to Update West Tampa CRA Redevelopment Plan

Renowned Firms Partner to Chart Next 10 Years of Growth

POMPANO BEACH, Fla., Dec. 17, 2025 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — RMA (rma.us.com), a leading economic development firm, is proud to be part of the project team helmed by RVi Planning + Landscape Architecture (RVi) to update the West Tampa Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) Redevelopment Plan. The plan update will focus on a redevelopment roadmap for the next 10 years and will identify community priorities, strategic opportunities, and economic partners to best execute the CRA’s goals, objectives, and policies.

West Tampa CRA
Image caption: West Tampa CRA.

“Our RMA team is honored that RVi selected us to collaborate on this important project,” said Christopher Brown, RMA Principal. “We are thrilled to build upon the outstanding work the CRA is doing with improvements to parks, multimodal connection, and the West Riverwalk project that recently broke ground.”

RVi is currently serving the City of Tampa’s Sustainability Division by leading an extensive tree-planting implementation program across multiple Ybor neighborhoods. RVi selected RMA as a strategic partner due to the firm’s specialized CRA expertise. A highly respected authority in the field, RMA has developed more than 25 CRA Plans and is led by individuals with over 30 years of experience implementing CRA projects.

For this project, RVi and RMA will build upon the Agency’s achievements and will continue to ensure the CRA Redevelopment Plan update process has deep community involvement and stakeholder participation.

“We are delighted to be adding RMA’s expertise to this project,” said Alexis Crespo, VP of Planning, RVi. “We share a similar philosophy and believe several initiatives are crucial for the CRA Redevelopment Plan Update. These include: a focus on attracting targeted redevelopment to catalytic sites; supporting historic and cultural preservation through updated development controls; defining the CRA through placemaking of public space; and creating a safe and accessible gateway for all transportation modes. We look forward to expanding upon these efforts together.”

With its central location in the heart of the city, between Downtown and the Westshore business district, West Tampa is poised for major redevelopment activity and its easy access to I-275 makes it a prime location for investment.

About RMA:

Founded in 2009 by Kim Briesemeister and Chris Brown, RMA is comprised of a phenomenal team of leading experts in economic development, real estate for governments, marketing, urban design, and financial analysis. RMA, headquartered in Pompano Beach, Florida, is a highly experienced, full-service economic redevelopment consulting and management firm, specializing in revitalizing core areas and corridors for cities, counties, and special districts nationwide. The co-founders are also the authors of one of the definitive books about city redevelopment, “Reinventing Your City: 8 Steps to Turn Your City Around.” Learn more: https://rma.us.com/.

About RVi:

RVi Planning + Landscape Architecture is a regional design firm widely recognized for its creative contributions in land use analysis, community planning, and design of outdoor spaces. Through creative strategy and design, they lead integrated teams to envision the world’s next great communities, public places, campuses, and hospitality experiences. RVi is a part of the Atwell Family of Companies

NEWS SOURCE: RMA (Redevelopment Management Associates)


This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (RMA (Redevelopment Management Associates)), who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. Image, if any, was provided by the news source and not this website or the wire service. Information is believed accurate, as provided by the news source, but is not guaranteed.

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/rma-joins-rvi-to-update-west-tampa-cra-redevelopment-plan/

Copr. © 2025 Send2Press® Newswire, Calif., USA. -- REF: S2P STORY ID: S2P131834 NOREL-3B

 

RMA Hired by the City of Coconut Creek to Create Redevelopment Plan

POMPANO BEACH, Fla., Dec. 10, 2025 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — RMA (rma.us.com), a leading economic development firm, has been awarded a contract by the City of Coconut Creek to create a redevelopment plan for the City. The award-winning firm will establish a set of redevelopment strategies, evaluate city-owned vacant land, identify underused private properties ripe for redevelopment, and conduct a long-term financial analysis for the city.

City of Coconut Creek
Image caption: City of Coconut Creek.

“RMA is honored to be working with the City of Coconut Creek,” said Lynn Dehlinger, Project Manager. “The city leaders have achieved so much through their forward-thinking vision, and they recognize that strategic redevelopment is essential to continue that success. We are enthusiastic about joining their efforts and helping to build that future.”

The City Commission’s goal is to ensure Coconut Creek’s economic vitality and sustainability by identifying development and redevelopment opportunities, evaluating their impacts on the local economy, municipal services, and the city’s fiscal health.

Nestled between Miami and Palm Beach, Coconut Creek distinguishes itself through thoughtful design and an eco-conscious ethos, earning recognition as a “Best City to Live in America” by Money Magazine and securing a Top 10 spot in Florida rankings by Movoto and NerdWallet.

With a population of 58,000, the city fosters a thriving business community anchored by the MainStreet Project. This award-winning development, recognized for its design excellence, is the city’s crown jewel. It features the Seminole Casino Coconut Creek and the upscale, 23-acre open-air Promenade, boasting diverse shops and restaurants.

The MainStreet initiative is set to revitalize the city center by creating a vibrant, walkable destination. It introduces a sophisticated mix of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces, including parks and activities, underscoring Coconut Creek’s commitment to people-centered development.

As a forward-thinking city, Coconut Creek is dedicated to sustainable and resilient growth.  Known as the “Butterfly Capital of the World” thanks to Butterfly World, the city is home to the largest park of its kind globally. Established in 1988, this vibrant sanctuary invites visitors into an immersive experience where they can walk among as many as 20,000 fluttering butterflies and diverse tropical creatures, exploring its expansive aviaries and educational breeding laboratory.

Coconut Creek’s development strategy prioritizes purposeful mixed-use spaces, ensuring long-term environmental and economic sustainability. This unique blend of nature, opportunity, and innovation positions Coconut Creek for a bright future and a high quality of life.

RMA brings extensive experience to this project, having successfully consulted with numerous cities, counties, and CRA Districts across the state. The firm specializes in developing comprehensive economic development and redevelopment plans that leverage each area’s unique strengths, while driving sustainable growth and enhancing the quality of life for residents.

About RMA:

Founded in 2009 by Kim Briesemeister and Chris Brown, RMA is comprised of a phenomenal team of leading experts in economic development, real estate for governments, marketing, urban design, and financial analysis. RMA, headquartered in Pompano Beach, Florida is a highly experienced, full-service economic redevelopment consulting and management firm, specializing in revitalizing core areas and corridors for cities, counties, and special districts nationwide. The co-founders are also the authors of one of the definitive books about city redevelopment, “Reinventing Your City: 8 Steps to Turn Your City Around.”

Learn more: https://rma.us.com/

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NEWS SOURCE: RMA (Redevelopment Management Associates)


This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (RMA (Redevelopment Management Associates)), who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. Image, if any, was provided by the news source and not this website or the wire service. Information is believed accurate, as provided by the news source, but is not guaranteed.

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/rma-hired-by-the-city-of-coconut-creek-to-create-redevelopment-plan/

Copr. © 2025 Send2Press® Newswire, Calif., USA. -- REF: S2P STORY ID: S2P131636 NOREL-3B

 

City of Dania Beach Selects RMA to Prepare CRA Operational Analysis

DANIA BEACH, Fla., Aug. 25, 2025 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — RMA (rma.us.com), a leading economic development firm, has been awarded a contract by the Dania Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) to assess the current operations of the Agency, as well as identify strategic economic opportunities. This Operational Analysis is especially crucial because the Dania Beach CRA does not receive tax increment financing from Broward County. Another goal of the analysis is to ensure the agency’s administrative and budgetary resources are fully aligned with its goals.

City of Dania Beach Selects RMA to Prepare CRA Operational Analysis
Image caption: City of Dania Beach Selects RMA to Prepare CRA Operational Analysis.

“Community Redevelopment Agencies are a powerful tool used to attract private investment which in turn, fortifies the City’s tax base,” said Kim Briesemeister, RMA Principal. “Every dollar in the CRA trust fund should be targeted toward attracting private investment to Dania Beach.”

RMA’s analysis will examine the real estate market and as well as the administrative landscape to provide the CRA with a comprehensive set of recommendations. This report will include strategies for the agency’s budget, staffing and resources, and current projects and programs. RMA has a proven track record of successful partnerships with cities, counties, and CRA districts across the state, specializing in strategies that drive sustainable and quality growth, and contribute to an enhanced quality of life for residents.

About Dania Beach:

Dania Beach stands as a vibrant economic hub, centrally located within the expansive Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA). This prime position affords Dania Beach businesses unparalleled access to both national and international markets thanks to its proximity to the Fort Lauderdale International Airport and Port Everglades. The city benefits from a substantial market with economic appeal.

About RMA:

Founded in 2009 by Kim Briesemeister and Chris Brown, RMA is comprised of a phenomenal team of leading experts in economic development, real estate for governments, marketing, urban design, and financial analysis. RMA, headquartered in Pompano Beach, Florida is a highly experienced, full-service economic redevelopment consulting and management firm, specializing in revitalizing core areas and corridors for cities, counties, and special districts nationwide. The co-founders are also the authors of one of the definitive books about city redevelopment, “Reinventing Your City: 8 Steps to Turn Your City Around.” Learn more at: https://www.rma.us.com/.

NEWS SOURCE: RMA (Redevelopment Management Associates)


This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (RMA (Redevelopment Management Associates)), who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. Image, if any, was provided by the news source and not this website or the wire service. Information is believed accurate, as provided by the news source, but is not guaranteed.

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/city-of-dania-beach-selects-rma-to-prepare-cra-operational-analysis/

Copr. © 2025 Send2Press® Newswire, Calif., USA. -- REF: S2P STORY ID: S2P128718 NOREL-3B

 

City of Lakeland Selects RMA to Revitalize Midtown CRA with Comprehensive Redevelopment Plan Update

POMPANO BEACH, Fla., July 8, 2025 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — RMA (rma.us.com) a leading economic development firm, has been awarded a contract by the City of Lakeland to spearhead the strategic modification of the Lakeland Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) Midtown District Redevelopment Plan. This initiative will encompass a thorough analysis of existing conditions, the implementation of performance measures, and the establishment of updated goals and objectives.

The recently revitalized Mass Market, on the anchors of the Midtown CRA.
Photo caption: The recently revitalized Mass Market, on the anchors of the Midtown CRA.

“RMA is honored to partner with the City of Lakeland on this transformative project within their largest CRA District,” stated Christopher Brown, RMA Principal. “We are committed to enhancing the quality of life and fostering seamless connectivity within the Midtown community. Our planning will prioritize purposeful development and stimulate strategic economic growth, thereby attracting private investment and the creation of jobs for Lakeland’s residents.”

The Midtown CRA, spanning a substantial 4,463 acres, extends from the intown bypass (Bartow Road) to Interstate-4. This expansive area is anchored by the prominent Medical District, the iconic Joker Marchant Stadium, and the recently revitalized Mass Market. Encompassing over 27 diverse neighborhoods with many active neighborhood associations, Midtown represents a significant opportunity for strategic redevelopment.

RMA brings extensive experience to this project, having successfully consulted with numerous cities, counties, and CRA Districts across the state. The firm specializes in developing comprehensive economic development and redevelopment plans that leverage each area’s unique strengths, while driving sustainable growth and enhancing the quality of life for residents.

About RMA:

Founded in 2009 by Kim Briesemeister and Chris Brown, RMA is comprised of a phenomenal team of leading experts in economic development, real estate for governments, marketing, urban design, and financial analysis. RMA, headquartered in Pompano Beach, Florida is a highly experienced, full-service economic redevelopment consulting and management firm, specializing in revitalizing core areas and corridors for cities, counties, and special districts nationwide. The co-founders are also the authors of one of the definitive books about city redevelopment, “Reinventing Your City: 8 Steps to Turn Your City Around.”

Learn more: https://rma.us.com/.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Kay Renz
Kay@KRPRMediaGroup.com

NEWS SOURCE: RMA (Redevelopment Management Associates)


This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (RMA (Redevelopment Management Associates)), who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. Image, if any, was provided by the news source and not this website or the wire service. Information is believed accurate, as provided by the news source, but is not guaranteed.

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/city-of-lakeland-selects-rma-to-revitalize-midtown-cra-with-comprehensive-redevelopment-plan-update/

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RMA Hired by Town of Lake Park’s CRA for Professional Consulting Services

Firm to Execute Marketing, Communications and Public Relations Plan

POMPANO BEACH, Fla., Oct. 30, 2024 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — The award-winning economic development firm, RMA (rma.us.com), is proud to have been selected by the Town of Lake Park’s Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) to create a Marketing, Communications, and Public Relations Plan, which will further the goals outlined in the CRAs recently updated Master Plan. RMA has assembled a seasoned team of professionals who will collaborate closely with the CRA to develop a comprehensive strategy. This plan will showcase the district’s unique blend of historical charm and exciting development opportunities, attracting new businesses that perfectly complement Lake Park’s character.

The Town of Lake Park
Image caption: The Town of Lake Park.

“RMA is honored to once again be working with Lake Park,” said Sharon McCormick, Director of Business Attraction and Marketing. “In 2017, we assisted the Town with updating their Comprehensive Plan, which ushered in a new era of economic development in the area. Now, we are thrilled to embark on this new endeavor to establish the best marketing and communications strategies for this community in accordance with the updates in the CRA Master Plan.”

Over the next few weeks, the RMA team will engage with local officials, business leaders, and community members to gather valuable input for this comprehensive plan, which will encompass a range of strategies, including branding, style guide development, placemaking, business attraction, retention, and more.

Nestled along the picturesque Lake Worth Lagoon/Intracoastal Waterway, the Town of Lake Park offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern amenities. Incorporated in 1923 as Kelsey City, in honor of its founder, Harry Kelsey, the name was changed to the Town of Lake Park in 1939.

The community’s rich legacy is beautifully reflected in its stunning collection of historic homes. These architectural gems showcase the unique styles and craftsmanship of different eras, providing a glimpse into the past. Lake Park Town Hall, a Mediterranean Revival masterpiece, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, as are many private residences.

While cherishing its heritage, Lake Park is emerging as a dynamic and thriving business hub. Renowned chef David Burke will soon open his inaugural Florida restaurant at Nautilus 220, a luxurious waterfront development, and the town was one of just 100 municipalities nationwide chosen to be visited by the National League of Cities during its recent centennial celebration. With approximately 9,000 residents and a bustling business sector within its 2.4 square miles, Lake Park is a vibrant community that seamlessly blends its rich history with a promising future.

About RMA:

Founded in 2009 by Kim Briesemeister and Chris Brown, RMA is comprised of a phenomenal team of leading experts in economic development, real estate for governments, marketing, urban design, and financial analysis. RMA, headquartered in Pompano Beach, Florida is a highly experienced, full-service economic redevelopment consulting and management firm, specializing in revitalizing core areas and corridors for cities, counties, and special districts nationwide. The co-founders are also the authors of one of the definitive books about city redevelopment, “Reinventing Your City: 8 Steps to Turn Your City Around.”

NEWS SOURCE: RMA (Redevelopment Management Associates)


This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (RMA (Redevelopment Management Associates)), who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. Image, if any, was provided by the news source and not this website or the wire service. Information is believed accurate, as provided by the news source, but is not guaranteed.

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/rma-hired-by-town-of-lake-parks-cra-for-professional-consulting-services/

Copr. © 2024 Send2Press® Newswire, Calif., USA. -- REF: S2P STORY ID: S2P121866 NOREL-3B

 

RMA Hired by the City of Bartow’s CRA for Community Development Feasibility Study

Central Florida City Readies for Next Phase of Redevelopment

POMPANO BEACH, Fla., Oct. 1, 2024 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — The award-winning economic development firm, RMA (rma.us.com), is proud to have been selected by the City of Bartow’s Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) to conduct a feasibility study for the potential redevelopment of commercial and residential properties, along with capital improvement projects, within the CRA district.

Polk County History Center in Bartow, Florida
Image caption: Polk County History Center in Bartow, Florida.

“RMA is excited to partner with Bartow as they embark on their next chapter of growth,” said Chris Brown, RMA Principal. “Bartow’s strategic central location within the state presents a wealth of economic development opportunities. Our team is eager to identify and analyze prime sites to maximize their potential and contribute to the community’s continued success.”

RMA has consulted with numerous cities, counties, and CRA Districts throughout the state creating economic development plans that capitalize on each area’s authentic strengths, while enhancing the quality of life of residents for decades to come. Feasibility studies are particularly rewarding as they provide data-driven insights into a variety of current factors including market demand, infrastructure, public-private-partnership potential, and more. After careful analysis, RMA’s report will provide recommendations that will maximize the chances of successful redevelopment, while mitigating risks.

The City of Bartow, appropriately named “City of Oaks and Azaleas,” has a population of approximately 19,000, and is the county seat of Polk County, which is one of Florida’s geographically largest counties, with more than 725,000 residents as of the 2020 US Census.  Thousands of government and private business employees commute to Bartow daily. Production of phosphate, citrus, and cattle are among the mainstays of the county’s economy.

About RMA:

Founded in 2009 by Kim Briesemeister and Chris Brown, RMA is comprised of a phenomenal team of leading experts in economic development, real estate for governments, marketing, urban design, and financial analysis. RMA, headquartered in Pompano Beach, Florida is a highly experienced, full-service economic redevelopment consulting and management firm, specializing in revitalizing core areas and corridors for cities, counties, and special districts nationwide. The co-founders are also the authors of one of the definitive books about city redevelopment, “Reinventing Your City: 8 Steps to Turn Your City Around.”

Learn more about RMA: https://rma.us.com/

NEWS SOURCE: RMA (Redevelopment Management Associates)


This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (RMA (Redevelopment Management Associates)), who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. Image, if any, was provided by the news source and not this website or the wire service. Information is believed accurate, as provided by the news source, but is not guaranteed.

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/rma-hired-by-the-city-of-bartows-cra-for-community-development-feasibility-study/

Copr. © 2024 Send2Press® Newswire, Calif., USA. -- REF: S2P STORY ID: S2P121229 NOREL-3B

 

RMA Hired by Downtown Kissimmee CRA for Branding & Marketing Strategy

POMPANO BEACH, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- The award-winning economic development firm, RMA (rma.us.com), is proud to have been selected by the Downtown Kissimmee CRA (DKCRA) to create a Branding and Marketing Strategy for the district, which also includes the Historic Downtown Kissimmee area. RMA boasts a proven track record of success, having revitalized numerous cities and CRA districts across Florida. The firm's effective approach combines visionary planning with targeted marketing and branding initiatives, attracting significant private investment, and fostering economic growth.

"The RMA team is honored to be working with the Downtown Kissimmee CRA to develop a brand strategy that will honor Kissimmee's rich history while embracing the diversity seen within the city today," said Sharon McCormick, RMA's Business Attraction & Marketing Director. "We are looking forward to getting to know the residents and businesses owners so we can develop a clear and authentic brand, reflecting this growing business and family-friendly area."

For this highly visible and important project, RMA has partnered with internationally recognized Todd Mayfield of Avia Design Group. Mayfield has over 35 years of experience in visual communications including wayfinding, brand development, advertising and print graphics. He has earned numerous awards for design excellence and profound respect among his constituents. He also serves on the Expert Panel of the European-based Placebrand Observer.

During the next few weeks, the RMA team will be conducting public engagement meetings to enhance insight into the area's distinctive attributes and character. Follow-up meetings along with online surveys will also be scheduled to continue engagement as the branding process advances.

The purpose of this branding strategy is to differentiate the DKCRA area as a unique destination location offering a variety of activities including local shopping and dining, government affairs, recreation and leisure activities, and more. The new brand will be used in future marketing and advertising campaigns.

The goal for the project is to create easily recognizable collateral materials including a logo, color palette, fonts, design elements along with a memorable tagline. These elements will be used to help market the Historic Downtown Kissimmee and Downtown Kissimmee CRA to future developers, residents, visitors, and businesses.

RMA's multi-layered approach will involve:

In-depth market analysis: Understanding the target audience, competitor landscape, and unique selling points of Downtown Kissimmee.

Strategic brand development: Creating a compelling brand identity that reflects Downtown Kissimmee's character and resonates with potential investors, residents, and visitors.

Targeted marketing plan: Developing a comprehensive marketing strategy that utilizes various channels to reach target audiences and generate excitement about Downtown Kissimmee.

About RMA:

Founded in 2009 by Kim Briesemeister and Chris Brown, RMA is comprised of a phenomenal team of leading experts in economic development, real estate for governments, marketing, urban design, and financial analysis. RMA, headquartered in Pompano Beach, Florida is a highly experienced, full-service economic redevelopment consulting and management firm, specializing in revitalizing core areas and corridors for cities, counties, and special districts nationwide. The co-founders are also the authors of one of the definitive books about city redevelopment, "Reinventing Your City: 8 Steps to Turn Your City Around." https://rma.us.com/

About Downtown Kissimmee CRA:

The City of Kissimmee established the Downtown Kissimmee Community Redevelopment Agency (DKCRA) in 1991 with a mission to restore, retain and redevelop Kissimmee as the heart of the community. The vision of DKCRA is to create activity, increase pedestrian traffic, promote events and connect lakefront visitors to the business districts, restaurants, and government offices. The area the DKCRA serves is in one of the fastest growing areas in Central Florida. From cattle ranches, renown bass lakes, the Historic District, revitalized Downtown, and development opportunities, to the newly redeveloped beautiful Lakefront Park, Kissimmee is a unique treasure for residents and tourists alike.

News from RMA (Redevelopment Management Associates)

The award-winning economic development firm, RMA (rma.us.com), is proud to have been selected by the Downtown Kissimmee CRA (DKCRA) to create a Branding and Marketing Strategy for the district, which also includes the Historic Downtown Kissimmee area. RMA boasts a proven track record of success, having revitalized numerous cities and CRA districts across Florida.

Related link: https://rma.us.com/

This version of news story was published on ScoopCloud™ (ScoopCloud.com) - part of and © the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved.

RMA Hired by City of Sarasota for Professional Consulting Services – Firm to Execute Economic Development Market Analysis and Visioning

POMPANO BEACH, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- The award-winning economic development firm, RMA (rma.us.com), is proud to have been selected by the City of Sarasota to conduct an Economic Development Market Analysis and Visioning for the City, including its business districts and neighborhoods. RMA's findings will be the basis for an economic development strategic plan which will incorporate the goals and activities that will build upon Sarasota's opportunities, while supporting area needs through resource allocation.

"RMA has helped revitalize numerous cities and CRA districts throughout the state, and we are honored to now be working with the beautiful City of Sarasota," said Adriane Esteban, RMA Senior Project Manager. "We see tremendous potential for economic advancement within Sarasota, while preserving its serene beauty and natural charm."

During the next few months, the RMA team will be conducting on-site assessments and reviewing economic and other data sets to fully understand the opportunities and obstacles present in the City's retail, real estate, and economic climate. In addition, there will be a public involvement component where the Project Team will hold meetings with residents, business owners, and local economic development partners to understand perspectives on the City's potential. These immersive experiences, along with RMA's economic analysis tools, allow the team to develop an analysis that connects with and enhances a community's innate identity and character, while balancing financial and market feasibility with economic vibrancy and regulatory efficiency. The project is expected to be completed by October.

Located on Florida's Gulf Coast, Sarasota is a world-class community and a prime tourism destination. The City initiated this analysis to examine data which illustrates current and anticipated market conditions in order to differentiate the City from other local municipalities. The study has multiple objectives focused on highlighting Sarasota's competitive viability including identifying targeted industries, redevelopment opportunities, land availability, and workforce capability.

For this project, RMA will be partnering with RVi Planning + Landscape Architecture firm and Daedulus Advisory Services, a firm that specializes in Public Private Partnerships and Infrastructure.

About RMA:

Founded in 2009 by Kim Briesemeister and Chris Brown, RMA is comprised of a phenomenal team of leading experts in economic development, real estate for governments, marketing, urban design, and financial analysis. RMA, headquartered in Pompano Beach, Florida is a highly experienced, full-service economic redevelopment consulting and management firm, specializing in revitalizing core areas and corridors for cities, counties, and special districts nationwide. The co-founders are also the authors of one of the definitive books about city redevelopment, Reinventing Your City: 8 Steps to Turn Your City Around. Learn more: https://rma.us.com/.

About the City of Sarasota:

Distinguished by U.S. News and World Report as the No. 5 Best Place to Live in the U.S. and the top place in Florida, the City of Sarasota is a diverse and inclusive community located on Florida's Suncoast with 56,000 year-round residents, several internationally recognized cultural arts venues, stunning sunsets along Lido Beach and Major League spring training baseball with the Baltimore Orioles. Learn more at www.SarasotaFL.Gov.

News from RMA (Redevelopment Management Associates)

The award-winning economic development firm, RMA (rma.us.com), is proud to have been selected by the City of Sarasota to conduct an Economic Development Market Analysis and Visioning for the City, including its business districts and neighborhoods.

Related link: https://rma.us.com/

This version of news story was published on ScoopCloud™ (ScoopCloud.com) - part of and © the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved.

RMA Expands Services to Support CRA Leaders on Compliance Issues

POMPANO BEACH, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- The award-winning economic development firm, Redevelopment Management Associates (RMA) is proud to announce an expansion of services supporting Community Redevelopment Agencies (CRAs) in the often gray area of statutory compliance. Due to the frequently misunderstood requirements of the CRA statute before, and the more restrictive change to the statute after 2019, once standard activities and expenditures within CRAs may now violate statutory restrictions on spending. To "Keep it Legal" RMA has welcomed longtime city attorney Claudia McKenna to their compliance team.

For more information, please visit https://rma.us.com/

"For decades, RMA has partnered with CRAs around the state, advancing their redevelopment planning," said Kim Briesemeister, RMA Principal. "With this new CRA compliance review service, RMA will examine current expenditures and educate CRA leaders about the best approach to avoid the danger zones that have resulted since the legislation change. To add to our already stellar team, we are pleased to announce that RMA will access the legal expertise of long time CRA attorney, Claudia McKenna."

Now, more than ever, CRAs need to demonstrate their compliance with statutory limitations on spending redevelopment trust fund dollars. Often a well-intentioned belief that an activity or expenditure is allowed results in the discovery that, in fact, the activity or expense violates the restrictions on spending in Sec. 163.387 F.S.

Whether it is marketing, special events, business attraction, code enforcement or job creation, it is imperative that CRAs avoid the pitfalls of spending trust fund dollars improperly. RMA's team has extensive experience with compliance and the need to amend CRA plans and budgets, as well as reconsider activities paid for by CRAs. RMA will offer a variety of services to help CRAs maintain statutory compliance including: Document Review of CRA Budgets & Plans, Identifying Alternatives and Making Plan Recommendations, and Updating CRA Plans for Compliance.

Led by long time CRA attorney, Claudia McKenna, and Sharon McCormick, RMA's Director of Information and Communications, our compliance team provides expert assistance in ensuring that your CRA meets the exacting requirements of Sec. 163.387(6) and spends trust fund dollars properly. A copy of the PowerPoint "Keep it Legal People" that Ms. McKenna and Ms. McCormick presented at the 2022 FRA Annual Conference about statutory compliance regarding marketing and special events is available on the RMA website, and the experts will be addressing this critical issue again at the 2023 conference.

Ms. McKenna is the former City Attorney for the City of West Palm Beach, a position she held from 2002 until her retirement in 2014. She joined the City Attorney's Office in 1996 as part of a multi-discipline team to assist with the ground-breaking CRA project that would become CityPlace. As City Attorney, Ms. McKenna advised the City Commission both as elected officials of the City, and in their capacity as the CRA Board of Commissioners. She participated in numerous successful and innovative CRA initiatives that allowed the City of West Palm Beach to eliminate much of its slum and blight and enjoy the renaissance it experiences today. Following her retirement, Ms. McKenna was hired by the City of Pompano Beach in 2015 to serve as the City's CRA Attorney. She continues to work with the Pompano Beach CRA advising the CRA Board and staff on all matters affecting Pompano Beach's two CRA districts.

About RMA:

Founded in 2009 by Kim Briesemeister and Chris Brown, RMA is comprised of a phenomenal team of leading experts in economic development, real estate for governments, marketing, urban design, and financial analysis. RMA, headquartered in Pompano Beach, Florida is a highly experienced, full-service economic redevelopment consulting and management firm, specializing in revitalizing core areas and corridors for cities, counties, and special districts nationwide. The co-founders are also the authors of one of the definitive books about city redevelopment, "Reinventing Your City: 8 Steps to Turn Your City Around."

News from RMA (Redevelopment Management Associates)

The award-winning economic development firm, Redevelopment Management Associates (RMA) is proud to announce an expansion of services supporting Community Redevelopment Agencies (CRAs) in the often gray area of statutory compliance. Due to the frequently misunderstood requirements of the CRA statute before, and the more restrictive change to the statute after 2019, once standard activities and expenditures within CRAs may now violate statutory restrictions on spending.

Related link: https://rma.us.com/

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