During a recent city council meeting, concerns were raised regarding the financial details of the upcoming Blues Festival, which has a total cost of $20,200. One council member expressed confusion over the vendor's legitimacy, noting that they could not find any information about the company in Michigan, only a similar name in Florida. This prompted a call for more transparency regarding the costs associated with the event.

In response, the mayor clarified that the festival's expenses have been partially offset by approximately $4,000 in sponsorships. He detailed that the budget covers a range of necessities, including world-class entertainers, staging, sound equipment, and insurance. The mayor emphasized that securing such high-profile talent often involves last-minute negotiations, which is typical in the entertainment industry.

Additional details were provided about the festival's logistics, including the cancellation of one band shortly before the event, which required quick adjustments to the lineup. The council was informed that some costs, such as porta-potty rentals, would be recouped due to changes in planning.

Despite the explanations, concerns lingered about the approval process for expenditures exceeding $5,000, as this particular cost was not preapproved by the council. A council member reiterated the importance of adhering to procedural requirements for financial transparency, suggesting that future costs should be presented separately for council approval.

The discussion highlighted the need for clearer communication and documentation regarding festival planning and expenditures, ensuring that council members are fully informed and able to make decisions that align with city policies.