The resolution commends the City of Florence and its Office of Planning and Community Development for receiving the prestigious 2026 Audrey Nelson Community Development Achievement Award. This recognition is awarded by the National Community Development Association for their innovative Literacy Gardens project at the Florence-Lauderdale Public Library, which effectively utilized Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds to enhance the quality of life for residents in low- to moderate-income communities. The project, led by Director Melissa Bailey, addresses significant community needs by providing safe, technology-enabled outdoor learning spaces that foster education, social connection, and access to resources.

The Literacy Gardens consist of two distinct outdoor learning areas: the Children's Garden, designed for young children to engage in literacy and sensory activities, and the Reading Garden, which offers a tranquil environment for teens, adults, and seniors to read, study, and work remotely. Funded through a combination of $120,000 in CDBG funds and over $250,000 in private donations, the project exemplifies community collaboration, with local businesses and volunteers contributing to its success. The gardens serve as a vital civic resource, promoting lifelong learning and inclusivity for all residents of Florence, and the resolution celebrates these remarkable efforts and the positive impact of the project on the community.