Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Community Events topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Kearney Enrichment Council says Oktoberfest likely to return Oct. 12 with revised footprint and hours
Summary
The Kearney Enrichment Council's executive director told the board that, after resolving volunteer and financial concerns and with city, chamber and Knights of Columbus support, Oktoberfest is likely to be held Oct. 12 between First and Second Streets and Lions Park, with hours moved to noon–5 p.m.; insurance quotes remain outstanding.
Kearney, Mo. — The Kearney Enrichment Council reported on plans to bring Oktoberfest back on Oct. 12 with a smaller, street‑centered footprint and shorter hours.
The council's executive director (referred to as "Lawrence" in the transcript) told the board the city, the Chamber of Commerce and the Knights of Columbus have stepped forward to help with planning and volunteers are now coming forward. Lawrence said the event footprint was changed to occupy the area between First and Second Streets and Lions Park and that bands and other activities will be set up on pavement "so that it won't upset the park," putting bounce houses and similar attractions on asphalt rather than grass.
Lawrence characterized the status as largely resolved, saying, "I've just said, that we are 90% of the way to having an agreement...It's probably closer than 98. There's a couple of little hurdles, and I'm waiting on a couple of quotes that, I wish insurance brokers worked a little faster." He said recommended new hours are noon to 5 p.m. based on geofencing data showing evening drop‑off in activity.
City staff said they are awaiting possible budget items from the enrichment council but thanked the council and volunteers for working with the city, chamber and Knights to bring the event back.
Next steps: Finalize insurance quotes and any budget items; the board and council will continue planning toward the Oct. 12 event.
