Lubbock County approves $10K for 2025 Fourth On Broadway parade funding

On June 9, 2025, the Lubbock County Commissioners' Court convened to discuss several funding requests aimed at promoting the arts within the community. A significant portion of the meeting focused on the funding request for the 2025 Fourth On Broadway parade, which has become a staple event in Lubbock.

The city of Lubbock, through Civic Lubbock Inc., requested $10,000 from the county to support the parade, which has a total budget of $367,000. While the motion to approve the funding was made by Judge Parrish and seconded by Commissioner Shaw, it sparked a debate among the commissioners. Some expressed concerns about the lack of representation from Civic Lubbock at the meeting, questioning the appropriateness of allocating funds without a formal presentation. One commissioner highlighted the importance of transparency and accountability, noting that previous funding requests had been turned down when applicants did not appear in person to advocate for their projects.

Despite these concerns, the motion to approve the funding passed with a vote of 4 to 1. This decision reflects the county's ongoing commitment to supporting community events, even as questions about the process linger.

In addition to the Fourth On Broadway discussion, the court also considered a funding request for the mariachi programs at Coronado and Lubbock High Schools. Kimberly Gonzalez, the mariachi director at Lubbock High School, presented the case for funding, emphasizing the cultural significance and educational benefits of the programs. She noted that the mariachi initiative has expanded significantly since its inception in 2007, fostering discipline, teamwork, and cultural pride among students.

The funding for the mariachi programs aligns with the county's goals to promote the arts and support educational initiatives. As these discussions unfold, the court's decisions will likely have lasting impacts on the cultural landscape of Lubbock, highlighting the importance of community engagement and the arts in local education.

Overall, the meeting underscored the county's dedication to fostering artistic expression while also raising questions about the processes involved in funding such initiatives. As the commissioners move forward, the balance between supporting community events and ensuring accountability will remain a critical focus.