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Soledad council approves annual events list, tells staff to return with budget details
Summary
The city approved a list of city‑led and co‑led events (Resolution 63‑17) and directed staff to return during the FY 2026–27 budget process with line‑item cost estimates and outcome metrics to guide future sponsorships and caps.
On Dec. 17 the Soledad City Council unanimously approved Resolution 63‑17, a list of city‑sponsored and co‑sponsored events the city will prioritize for in‑kind resources and possible street closures.
Mayor Ana Velasquez said the list will help staff and council focus budgeting for the next fiscal year. Councilmembers emphasized that approving the list tonight does not commit detailed funding; instead the council asked staff to return during the FY 2026–27 budget process with specific cost allocations for city‑led events such as the Christmas parade, summer events and other large‑cost items. “I’m okay with approving the list tonight, but bringing it back during the budget process just to make sure it doesn't get lost,” Velasquez said.
City staff (Megan) told the council many of the higher‑cost events fall in the next fiscal year and recommended a capped annual allocation and greater effort to secure sponsorships; staff noted that some past events were supported in part by donated services (for example, donated porta‑potties) and that a sponsorship approach can offset costs. Council asked that the list clearly distinguish city‑led events (where city resources are primary) from events the city only cosponsors or supports on a case‑by‑case basis (for example, HarvestFest and Día de los Niños).
By approving the resolution, the council authorizes the events list and the administrative process staff described; formal budget allocations and any street‑closure approvals will come back for separate council approval as part of the FY 2026–27 budget cycle.
