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Yankton approves $35,153.40 Avenue of Flags project funding using off-sale license revenue and BBB funds; mayor abstains
Summary
Yankton's City Commission approved funding for a VFW Avenue of Flags project at Fanta Memorial Park, allocating $30,000 from recent license-sale proceeds and about $5,153.40 from the BBB fund; Mayor Villanueva abstained.
The Yankton City Commission on June 23 approved funding for the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) "Avenue of Flags" project at Fanta Memorial Park. After discussion and an amended motion, the commission directed an amount equivalent to $30,000 (the recent off-sale alcohol-license proceeds deposited to the general fund) toward the project and directed the balance, approximately $5,153.40, to come from the city's BBB (bed, board and booze) fund. Mayor Villanueva abstained from the vote because he is a member of the VFW auxiliary.
City planner/assistant Amy (presenting staff) described the request: the VFW seeks to repair, replace and expand the Avenue of Flags display; the initial project cost estimate submitted by the VFW was $35,153.40. Staff recommended a partial contribution and suggested the use of one-time auction/license proceeds; parks staff agreed to provide in-kind support, and the VFW and local scout groups will assist with flag installation. The VFW also plans to create an ongoing maintenance fund with the group and community donations to cover future flag and pole repairs.
Commissioner Conkling moved to fund the request; Commissioner Hanoff seconded and later agreed to an amendment to use the full $30,000 off-sale license proceeds with the remaining balance from the BBB. Commissioners discussing the motion emphasized the project's local symbolic importance and the volunteer work of veterans and scout groups, while others cautioned against large one-time draws on the BBB fund and urged fundraising and maintenance planning.
Commission and staff clarified donations already raised: Mayor Villanueva donated $500 personally; the Chopper Johnson Foundation donated $500; and the VFW had collected at least $200 from flag sales. Commissioners and staff agreed donated funds should be applied to the flagged project and also supported creating the maintenance reserve.
Final roll call on the amended motion recorded the following votes: Mosher (aye), Benson (aye), Birch (aye), Brunick (aye), Sarta (aye), Conkling (aye), Hanoff (aye), Mayor Villanueva (abstain). The amended motion carried.
The VFW volunteers and city parks staff may proceed with procurement; staff will coordinate purchases and transfers needed to make the initial payments to vendors.
