During a recent village board meeting, officials discussed the financial challenges surrounding the upcoming Village Days event, which has been a staple in the community for 80 years. Despite efforts to reduce the budget by $18,000 compared to 2023, the Greendale Events Association (GEA) reported a loss of $4,277, raising concerns about the event's sustainability.

Trustees emphasized the importance of Village Days for community engagement and expressed a desire to reinstate Thursday events, which had been cut. Trustee Barbuda highlighted the necessity of maintaining nonprofit participation, stating that these organizations contribute significantly to the village's character and vibrancy.

The discussion also turned to the costs associated with road closures during the event. Manager Hawes revealed that the village incurred approximately $13,599 in expenses for Village Days, with additional costs for police and public works. This prompted calls for a reevaluation of the fees charged for special event permits, particularly in light of the financial strain on nonprofits. Some trustees suggested that while it is essential to recoup costs, imposing excessive fees could hinder the participation of local organizations.

Trustee Marvin pointed out that other municipalities charge significantly higher fees for street closures, suggesting that the village should consider a similar approach to ensure financial viability without overburdening nonprofits. The board acknowledged the need for a balanced solution that supports community events while addressing the village's budgetary constraints.

As the village prepares for the budget discussions, the board is tasked with finding a way to sustain Village Days and other events while managing costs effectively. The outcome of these discussions will be crucial for the future of community engagement in Greendale.