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ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – The nation\u2019s longest-running Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. parade will keep its city funding for 2025, but concerns about state scrutiny loomed large during Thursday\u2019s St. Petersburg<\/a> City Council meeting.<\/p>\n Big picture view:<\/p>\n Council members voted to maintain the parade\u2019s $230,000 budget \u2013 $150,000 for parade operations and $80,000 for a marquee band.<\/p>\n READ: St. Pete City Council to discuss economic impact if Rays leave after 2028 season<\/a><\/p>\n The conversation was tied to a contract for a new parade organizer, but it comes at a time when the Florida Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) is preparing to audit the city\u2019s finances next week.<\/p>\n Local perspective:<\/p>\n For many residents, the parade is a treasured tradition honoring Dr. King\u2019s legacy. St. Pete resident Amber Woods said her family rarely misses it.<\/p>\n “I have five girls. They go almost every year,” Woods said.<\/p>\n MORE: Tropicana Field repairs: St. Pete leaders approve agreement for new turf, non-roof repairs<\/a><\/p>\n But with DOGE auditors set to review city spending, some residents worry the event could be at risk. Trevor Mallory, a previous organizer of the parade, voiced concern that the parade\u2019s cultural significance could be undermined.<\/p>\n “With all of our African American history already under attack, that scares me,” Mallory said.<\/p>\n Dig deeper:<\/p>\n This year\u2019s budget includes $80,000 to bring in a marquee marching band, covering transportation, lodging and meals. Last year, Florida A&M University\u2019s band performed, but its costs were paid from a separate budget line.<\/p>\n Council Member Gina Driscoll questioned the expense given tight budget conditions.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mlk-parade.jpg\")
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