Bristol City Council on Aug. 26 approved a motion to reduce the city’s FY‑26 appropriation to the nonprofit Believe in Bristol from the $70,000 included in the adopted budget to $50,000 and to reserve the remaining $20,000 for downtown events and Virginia 250‑related activities.

Council discussion focused on timing and fairness to outside organizations that plan annual budgets around council appropriations. One council member said returning to the prior funding level of $50,000 would be less disruptive than changing a mid‑year allocation, while other members noted downtown programming needs and upcoming regional celebrations that could require city funding for event matches and logistical support.

The motion passed by roll call with Council member Farnam voting no and Council members Holmes, Osborne, Pollard and Mayor Nave voting yes. Staff and council clarified that city allocations to outside organizations are traditionally disbursed quarterly and that reallocating the $20,000 preserves funding directed back into downtown activities rather than cutting overall support for downtown programs.

The motion directs staff to manage the reallocation for downtown events; council did not specify a single contractor or program but referenced the 2026 Virginia 250 commemoration as a likely use. Council members said they expect staff to provide details on use and accounting for the reallocated amount during budget monitoring.

Actions: Council amended the city’s budget appropriation for Believe in Bristol, directing $50,000 to the organization and reserving $20,000 for downtown event support; the motion carried 4–1 on a roll call vote.

Context: Believe in Bristol is a local nonprofit that organizes downtown events and programming; council members noted the group had requested more funding in the FY‑26 budget cycle and that city staff typically distributes community organization funding quarterly.