Dear Friends and Supporters of North Port Forward,

We are writing to share an important update regarding the future of North Port Forward (NPF).

After several years of dedicated effort and passionate community engagement, we have reached a point where we believe the initial goals that brought us together have been significantly addressed.

Therefore, the executive board has made the difficult decision to formally close the organization.

Looking back to our humble beginnings in 2018, following the District 5 commissioner seat race, a group of 20 to 30 enthusiastic residents felt a strong desire to continue the conversations about the possibilities for our city.

Our informal monthly gatherings, which continued into 2019 at the Shannon Staub Library, fueled lively debates and brainstorming sessions over pizza and soft drinks.

During those early meetings, we collectively envisioned a brighter future for North Port, focusing on key areas such as:

· Creating social amenities: Exploring the potential for hotels, event centers, and quality restaurants to enhance our city's appeal.

· Attracting clean industry: Investigating strategies to bring high-paying jobs in sectors like robotics, 3D printing/manufacturing, medical research, and pharmaceuticals to North Port.

· Building essential infrastructure: Discussing the steps needed to develop crucial infrastructure like 5G internet, alternative energy sources, and expanded water and sewer services to attract businesses and improve quality of life.

· Communication with local government and Commission: promote greater engagement between North Port residents and the city by establishing clear channels for questions and transparent responses; build a more communicative and transparent relationship between North Port residents and the city, ensuring residents have ample opportunity to ask questions and receive open answers and most importantly, empower North Port residents to actively participate in their local government by facilitating a robust system for asking questions and receiving clear, accountable answers- open dialog, conversations face to face.

It was during this formative period that we proudly adopted the name 'North Port Forward,' a testament to our shared commitment to progress.

NPF continued to thrive, meeting monthly and hosting informative guest speakers, including the City Manager, the Neighborhood Development Department Manager, the Economic Development Manager, Utilities Director, Fire & Police Chiefs, and staff and city commissioners.

These open-to-the-public meetings, held at various locations around the city, fostered a greater understanding of city operations, budget considerations, and the utilization of surtax dollars.

The insightful assistance from Nancy Johnson of 'Team Punta Gorda' in June 2019 provided a valuable framework for how NPF could similarly contribute to our city.

This led to the formalization of our mission: ‘Shaping the Future of North Port’ – to inform, educate, and inspire residents on topics vital to our community.

The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 presented unforeseen challenges. As in-person gatherings became impossible,

NPF adapted and continued its work through ZOOM sessions.

While this period saw some members move away or sadly pass, and others step up to serve our city in elected office, the core spirit of NPF remained. It is with immense pride that we reflect on the progress North Port Forward has made in the areas that were central to our initial discussions.

We have witnessed significant advancements in attracting new businesses to the city, the development of infrastructure projects, and an increasing focus on enhancing the social and economic landscape of our city.

We believe that the collective voice and the initial momentum generated by North Port Forward have played a part in these positive developments.

While the organization will be formally closing, the spirit of collaboration and the commitment to a vibrant future for North Port will undoubtedly continue within our community.

We extend our deepest gratitude to all the dedicated individuals who contributed their time, energy, and passion to North Port Forward.

Your participation in meetings, your thoughtful discussions, and your unwavering commitment to our city have been invaluable.

Though North Port Forward as an organization is concluding its journey, we encourage you to remain engaged in our city's progress and to continue working individually and collectively to shape its future.

Thank you for being a part of the North Port Forward story.

Sincerely,
The Executive Board of North Port Forward
Thank you,