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Commission defers approval of East Grand Rapids ‘Winterfest’ fundraiser at Manhattan Park
Summary
A conceptual Winterfest proposed by the East Grand Rapids Community Foundation for early February was discussed and sent back to staff to return next month after commissioners raised procedural and conflict-of-interest concerns.
Commissioners discussed a conceptual proposal from the East Grand Rapids Community Foundation to host a Winterfest fundraiser and community day at Manhattan Park but chose not to approve it at the April 28 meeting, instead asking staff to return with the item next month.
Parks staff (Derek) described the proposal as a community field‑day-style winter event with a warming tent, portable restrooms, winter-themed activities and flexible placement on the park’s open spaces (organizers cited Manhattan Park’s new renovated soccer field as a possible location). The foundation expects the event to serve as a fundraiser to support its mission and to partner with local user groups and schools.
Commissioner Patrick disclosed he serves on the planning committee for the event; another commissioner (Cynthia) suggested postponing formal approval so a larger majority could vote without any question of conflict of interest. Staff said the event would not require a road closure and that the department would not charge the Community Foundation a permit fee for the proposed activity.
Because the organizers and staff need more time to refine logistics (final maps, snow/field‑condition contingencies and revenue‑sharing plans), commissioners agreed to delay action and ask staff to bring a refined application back at the next meeting. Derek said the date under consideration is Feb. 7 and that organizers intend to work with schools and community groups on programming and revenue sharing.
No formal permit was approved; the commission’s action was to delay final approval to allow additional review and to avoid any appearance of a conflict of interest by a serving commissioner.
