Chamber and Hobo Arts Alliance request additional funding for Friday Night Live; council signals support and ARPA as possible source

Representatives of the Cloverdale Chamber and the Hobo Arts Alliance requested additional funding for the current and next fiscal year to cover rising personnel and event costs for downtown events including Friday Night Live.

Chamber and Hobo Arts Alliance speakers said event expenses—personnel, production, security, porta‑lets and supplies—have increased; organizers noted they raise sponsorships and community contributions but seek more city support. Dan and Mark of the Hobo Arts Alliance and chamber staff (Nina and Savannah) described an expanded calendar of events and a proposed budget that had previously peaked at roughly $23,000 in better years and has been supported more recently at about $5,000 from the city; the presenters asked for a larger, additional allocation to sustain and grow events. (Dan; Mark; Chamber staff Nina; Chamber staff Savannah)

Councilors praised the volunteer and nonprofit organizers and cited the events’ value for community morale and downtown economic activity. One council member suggested using one‑time federal ARPA funds to support this year’s programming, calling ARPA a "one time thing" that could be spent to boost community events. Council members also discussed coordination with police on security and with city staff on staging, restrooms and lighting. The council indicated support and planned a budget‑amendment item for an upcoming council meeting to consider additional funding; no final appropriation was approved at the meeting.