In an effort to generate city revenue during the current recession, longtime Delray Beach resident Robert Moore opened up his checkbook and wrote a check for $1,000 to fund a contest that he hopes to generate strategies for increasing revenues in the municipality. Moore quit complaining about city economy issues, joined the inaugural group of residents in a city budget task force, and then created the “Delray Beach Residents Compete for Cash in Contest to Increase City Revenue.”
"This contest should be fun, but it will also give our politicians insight as to what our residents are thinking about budgets and what is important to them. Our ultimate goal is to get residents involved in city government,” Moore said.
The contest will give out three cash prizes for residents that come up with the best ideas to help generate city revenue. All contest submissions must not reflect for an increase in ad-valorem taxes and must be legal and non-discriminatory.
“I was one of seven residents on the budget task force. I wanted to come up with a creative way to increase revenue while keeping services and not raise taxes. I came up with the plan, was supported by my budget task force peers, and personally offered $1,000 of my own money,” Moore said.
Grand prize is $500, second prize is $300 and third prize is $200.
Entry deadline is Aug. 21, and winners will be announced in early September. Submissions should be about 500 words and should be dropped off at the Delray Beach Chamber of Commerce at 6 64-A SE Fifth Ave. Entries can also be e-mailed to bwood@delraybeach.com. Budget Task Force members, city commissioners and family, city manager and judges are not eligible to participate.

For more information call Bill Wood at the Greater Delray Beach Chamber of Commerce at 561-278-0424.