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Historic District Commission discusses Parade of Homes fundraising; city staff says commission cannot directly fundraise
Summary
The Adrian Historic District Commission agreed to form a separate Parade of Homes committee and explore partnering with an independent nonprofit for fundraising after City Administrator Chad Ball said the commission likely cannot legally fundraise directly.
The Adrian Historic District Commission on Jan. 6 welcomed two new members and discussed whether it can organize a Parade of Homes fundraiser, ultimately agreeing to form a separate volunteer committee to explore the idea.
City Administrator Chad Ball told the commission that preliminary legal research indicates the commission may not be allowed to fundraise directly. "It looks like you cannot fundraise, and it would have to be through an independent body," Ball said, and he said he would obtain a formal legal opinion and return with a recommended path. Members discussed partnering with a nonprofit or having an independent organization accept funds on the commission's behalf; the Lenawee County Historical Museum was suggested as a ticketing partner.
The issue matters because the commission said funds could be used for district improvements such as signage and lighting. Members emphasized the Parade of Homes would require substantial volunteer work — commissioners said prior efforts took roughly a year of preparation — and recommended a separate Parade of Homes committee rather than performing event organization as official commission business. "We should not need as an official historic district commission to prepare the parade of homes, but I think it makes sense for us to volunteer to serve on a separate committee," a commission member said.
Procedurally, the commission also confirmed officers and set a standing meeting time. After nominations and votes, Brenda Rigdon was approved as secretary and Megan Greenwell as assistant secretary. The commission decided to keep regular meetings at 6:00 p.m. unless they conflict with Zoning Commission meetings. Chair Betsy Lackey said she would email members to schedule a separate planning meeting for the Parade of Homes volunteers.
Next steps: Ball said he would seek a formal legal opinion on fundraising options and return to the commission; commissioners will await that guidance before authorizing any fundraiser. The commission noted the tentative next meeting date if needed was Feb. 3 at 6:00 p.m.
