Council approves $100,000 authority package to plan Fountain Hills 'America 250' events

Council approved a staff request to authorize and initiate planning for Fountain Hills' participation in the national 250th anniversary of the United States.

Staff asked for a mix of near-term authority and future-year budget approval: $15,000 to be transferred from the general fund contingency to the downtown strategy fund this fiscal year to update and replace avenue banners and for early promotional material, plus authorization to spend approximately $40,000 in FY2027 to secure a national performer and other event costs. Staff described a $100,000 overall authority request to enable early contracting and program development; much of the downtown strategy fund already has an available balance, and tshirts and other branded items are expected to be sold to recoup some costs.

Vice Mayor Skilichorn and other councilmembers spoke in support, noting tourism and marketing opportunities. One councilmember suggested larger, more readable banners; staff said such changes could be considered at the February retreat but the current request is time-sensitive because printing and procurement timelines would otherwise delay January placements. The council approved the request by roll call (7–0). Staff said they will report back on actual expenditures and tshirt sales to track recoupment.