The Leon Valley City Council voted Aug. 19 to approve an in‑kind grant waiving $975 in fees to allow American Legion Post 336 to hold its annual Sept. 11 remembrance at the Leon Valley Conference Center.

Crystal Miranda, community relations director, reviewed the application and the in‑kind grant committee’s score (median 13.65 of a possible 24). The request covered a half‑day facility rental, setup and cleanup fees, refundable deposit and security; the committee estimated the city cost for waivers at $975. Garrett Stacy, first vice commander of American Legion Post 336, told council the event drew roughly 50 attendees last year and is open to local residents and first‑responder organizations.

Council members discussed alternatives including requiring the legion to pay some fees, booking deadlines and whether the event should be a recurring city‑funded item. After discussion, Councilor Orozco moved to approve the requested fee waivers for this year and Councilor Campos seconded; during debate Councilor Marsh offered an amendment asking staff to work with the American Legion and, beginning in fiscal year 2027, split the cost between the city and the organization. The council approved the motion and amendment; members voiced support for treating the 2025 request as a one‑time waiver while establishing a cost‑sharing approach going forward.

Why it matters: The city’s decision preserves a longstanding civic memorial event for 2025 while establishing a policy direction to reduce recurring budget pressure by asking the Legion to share costs in future years.

Details and fiscal impact: The in‑kind committee listed the cleanup fee at $145 and security at $110; staff estimated the total city fee waiver at $975. Stacy said the American Legion and Veterans Club publicize the event via mailers and social media; the organization indicated a membership base and local outreach. Council recorded the motion and approved the in‑kind grant; the vote was carried by the council at the meeting.

Next steps: Staff will process the in‑kind grant per the city policy for FY 2025 and develop a plan for splitting recurring costs with the American Legion in FY 2027 as directed by council.