Councilors discussed options for sound equipment at the fairgrounds and Fourth of July events as staff weigh the cost of purchasing permanent outdoor speakers versus renting for the holiday and rodeos.

Ned explained he had solicited bids and presented two primary options: a permanent outdoor installation bid from Atkinson Sound for about $24,018, and a rental option from a Smithfield vendor estimated at about $7,305 to cover the multi-day schedule. "It's a lot of money to spend for three days out of the year," Ned said, and noted rodeo groups customarily bring their own systems but may not allow the city to borrow equipment for youth rodeos.

Council members discussed that three years of rental could approach or exceed the purchase price and said the item will be an action item on the next agenda. Ned said he had asked Atkinson Sound for a rental price and expected to report options at the next meeting. The council also reviewed vendor-registration links, parade lineup logistics and revised sponsorship-fee arrangements from the rodeo committee, and discussed finding a volunteer to run a morning fun run.

No purchase or rental contract was approved at the meeting; councilors asked staff to return with rental quotes and additional details in the next packet so members can make an action decision.