Arts Commission votes to request additional $17,000 from council to expand ChalkFest 2025

The Oak Harbor Arts Commission voted unanimously Tuesday to ask City Council for an additional $17,000 in city support for ChalkFest 2025, moving the commission’s requested total event budget from $52,000 toward approximately $69,000–$70,000.

Commission members said the $52,000 figure currently in the commission’s budget would produce a solid event, but the extra $17,000 would allow more invited artists — internationally sourced chalk artists were discussed — and a fuller festival atmosphere. The commission made the decision after hearing from staff and the event promoter about how artist fees and travel determine the final scope. The vote by the commission was to request council approval of the additional funds so organizers could proceed with contracting and artist invitations.

Liz, a city staff member, explained the current $52,000 includes the promoter’s fee and is approved in the arts fund and LTAC (lodging-tax) amounts; adding $17,000 would change the procurement process and might trigger a request-for-proposals (RFP) or other procurement steps. Commissioners acknowledged that increasing the budget could change timeline and contracting mechanics and asked staff to bring the item to the next council meeting on a short timeline if possible.

Commissioners discussed potential event features — food trucks, a green room for artists, and partnerships with local organizations — and flagged rain contingency plans (artist canopies). Commissioners also noted that first-year vendor fees often do not cover costs and that sponsorship or vendor revenue to offset costs is unlikely in year one. The promoter was reported to be prepared to begin contacting artists with the proposed July timeframe but needs a timely commitment to secure participants.

Motion: the commission moved to go to council to request the additional $17,000 to reach the target budget; the motion passed unanimously.