Sunnyside city officials are taking proactive measures to enhance security for upcoming community events, particularly the highly anticipated Cinco de Mayo celebration. During a recent meeting, city leaders discussed the need for a comprehensive approach to event security, especially in light of past incidents, including a shooting at a previous Cinco de Mayo event.

The city plans to apply for funding to cover security costs, which have become a significant concern since the COVID-19 pandemic. Officials emphasized the importance of ensuring that event organizers are aware of security requirements in advance to avoid unexpected expenses. The discussion highlighted the necessity of reviewing existing contracts to clarify responsibilities and costs associated with security.

City leaders also considered utilizing Lodging Tax Advisory Committee (LTAC) funds to offset security expenses. This funding could help alleviate the financial burden on the police department, which is expected to deploy a substantial number of officers during the event. The police department's overtime budget for the year is approximately $459,000, and officials noted that while the budget is currently on track, unexpected incidents could quickly deplete these funds.

The meeting underscored the city's commitment to maintaining public safety during signature events while ensuring fairness in how security costs are managed across different types of events. As the city prepares for Cinco de Mayo, officials are focused on implementing these measures to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all attendees. The next steps will involve finalizing funding applications and reviewing contracts to ensure clarity and preparedness ahead of the event.