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Authority Signals $20,000 Partnership for AlphaLoop "Lights on the Loop"; MOU to be Drafted
Summary
In a workshop discussion, the Development Authority of Alpharetta indicated support for a $20,000 contribution to the AlphaLoop Foundation's 2025 Lights on the Loop event and asked staff to draft a memorandum of understanding for formal approval at a later meeting.
The Development Authority of Alpharetta indicated support for providing $20,000 to the AlphaLoop Foundation to help fund the foundation’s Lights on the Loop winter activation, and staff was directed to draft a memorandum of understanding to define terms before the authority formally approves the contribution.
Karen Richards, presenting for the AlphaLoop Foundation, described the December 2025 event as a multi-week activation that will run three consecutive weekends with lighting displays, programming and a winter village. Richards said, “We have raised to date $98,104 ... $76,000 has been raised specifically for the Lights on the Loop event in December. The overall budget is $150,000.” She told the authority the foundation plans to lease lighting (not purchase) and to install permanent power for a small section this year to reduce recurring activation costs.
The presentation clarified that AlphaLoop currently has 54 lighting poles overall, and the foundation’s plan for this year includes adding permanent power to about eight poles in the Northwinds/Northwinds Parkway section to support Lights on the Loop and future programming. Richards said the leased lighting vendor will handle installation, de-installation and maintenance for the 30-day activation period.
Board members discussed purpose and funding. Authority counsel advised that the request can fit under the authority’s enabling powers and a catch-all provision permitting expenditure of undesignated funds to promote the city’s trade, commerce, and general welfare. Morgan disclosed and recused herself from discussion and any vote due to service on the foundation board.
On funding and budget: staff said the authority currently has $260,087 in undesignated funds available for investment. Members asked whether electrification funded by the authority would create ongoing responsibilities; Richards and staff reiterated the foundation plans to lease lights and that the foundation would not own the lighting equipment.
Outcome and next steps: members verbally agreed on a $20,000 partnership level. Charlie (economic development staff) and staff will draft an MOU that spells out amount, purpose, and terms; the MOU will be returned to the authority for formal approval at a future meeting. There was no formal vote taken at this workshop session.
