Addison council keeps Taste event in 2026 budget amid sharp debate over costs and revenue

Addison — The Addison City Council voted to keep the Taste of Addison event in the town’s proposed fiscal 2026 budget after an extended discussion on Tuesday about rising costs, projected revenues and alternative approaches to promoting local restaurants.

At a work session earlier the same evening, Steven Glitter, the town’s chief financial officer, told council members that updated revenue assumptions added about $140,000 to the hotel fund projections and improved the 10-year reserve outlook. Glitter also said staff moved several previously phased improvements for the Addison Theater Center into the FY2026 decision package, which increased one-time spending out of the hotel fund.

The debate centered on whether the current Taste model — with park activation, entertainment and significant town-led infrastructure — is sustainable. Council members and the event director, Abby (event director), described efforts to raise new revenue streams and to increase ticket and vendor pricing. Council Member Dan said the proposed budget includes “increased emission prices, new and different revenue streams” and staff intends to pursue a mix of options, including premium packages.

Several council members urged more dramatic changes. Council Member Howard…