Azalea Neighborhood Association Meeting Recap – June 4, 2025
Thanks to everyone who joined us for the June meeting at the Azalea Rec Center!
Community Service Officer Jenn Wright gave a positive update: no reported crimes in the neighborhood this past month. There was no serious crime reported - only 38 total calls for service, 2 were domestic-related. A resident raised concerns about driver behavior in the 5th Avenue construction zone — both Officer Wright and Ryan Adelberg (legislative aide to Councilmember Copley Gerdes) said they would look into the issue. Officer Wright also reminded residents that:
E-bikes are not allowed on the trail
Golf carts must be registered to be street legal
She also shared safety advice for when strangers knock on your door - those tips are posted here:
<https://insideazaleaville.blogspot.com/p/what-to-do-when-stranger-knocks-on-your.html>
City Updates from Ryan Adelberg, legislative aide to Copley Gerdes:
Ryan shared several city updates and fielded neighborhood questions:
The Azalea Gateway project (a large-scale affordable housing development) no new activity expected before 2026.
The Science Center - the current plan is for a reopening sometime in 2026.
A resident asked whether any environmental studies had been conducted on the Raytheon property aside from those done by the developer. Ryan said he would look into it and follow up.
He also highlighted grant opportunities through city programs such as Sunrise St. Pete and CDBG-DR (Community Development Block Grant – Disaster Recovery), which can help fund community improvements.
The previously submitted request for a traffic study on Farragut Drive may be resubmitted in six months.
Ryan encouraged residents to consider applying for vacant seats on city boards and committees, emphasizing how important local participation is for shaping policy and development.
Guest: Cathy Wrigley & the Little Free Seed Stand
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1594009297939055
Located at 1126 77th St N 33710
Our guest speaker, Cathy Wrigley, introduced the neighborhood to her inspiring project: the Little Free Seed Stand, a community-based resource she created to promote gardening and ecological awareness. Cathy spoke about the importance of growing native plants, which are uniquely adapted to Florida’s climate and soil, require less water and maintenance, and provide essential habitat for pollinators, birds, and butterflies. By planting natives, residents can support biodiversity, reduce invasive species, and beautify their yards — all while helping restore a more sustainable ecosystem.
Cathy handed out free seed packets and awarded two neighbors with potted native plants to take home. You can find more about her project and ongoing seed offerings on Facebook at “Little Free Seed Stand.”
It was an informative evening — thanks to all who attended and participated!
