The City of Seabrook, Texas, held its regular City Council meeting on December 3, 2024, where discussions centered on the funding and management of the upcoming Celebration Seabrook event. The meeting highlighted concerns regarding the financial implications of using hotel occupancy tax (HOT) funds and general funds for the event.

Council members revisited comments made by Mr. McCollum in a previous meeting, suggesting that an outside civic organization could manage the event instead of relying on city funds. This proposal sparked a debate about the appropriateness of using HOT funds for the celebration, with some council members questioning the transparency of the budget and the perception of spending among citizens.

A significant point of contention was the allocation of approximately $100,000 from the general fund for the event, which includes $45,000 from HOT funds. Council members expressed concerns that citizens might perceive this expenditure as excessive for a single-day event. One council member proposed that the city should support a civic organization to take over the event's management, allowing for a more streamlined approach and potentially reducing costs.

The discussion also touched on the historical context of the event's management, noting that previous celebrations were organized by the Seabrook Association, which operated independently with minimal city involvement. The council debated whether a civic group could effectively manage the event while still receiving financial support from the city.

Council members acknowledged the complexity of the budget, with various revenue sources including sponsorships and ticket sales contributing to the overall funding. However, there was a consensus that clearer communication about the budget and funding sources was necessary to alleviate public concerns.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the need for a thorough review of the Celebration Seabrook event's funding and management structure. The council agreed to consider forming a committee to explore options for involving civic organizations in the event's planning, aiming to enhance community engagement while ensuring fiscal responsibility. Further discussions and decisions are expected in upcoming meetings as the council seeks to balance community celebration with budgetary constraints.