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Town discusses charging for parking to offset cost of Chris Lane concert; final pricing deferred

Kernersville Board of Aldermen · January 7, 2026
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Summary

Staff said the town has contracted national artist Chris Lane for an April 11 concert at Ivy Redmond Park with an estimated cost near $33,000; the board discussed charging $5—or parking and seeking sponsors but agreed to have staff return with a full event plan and sponsorship update before setting final parking fees.

Town staff told the Kernersville Board of Aldermen Jan. 6 that Ernie (Parks & Recreation) has secured national artist Chris Lane for an April 11 performance at Ivy Redmond Park and that the town is planning a larger celebration event.

Curtis Swisher described the estimated cost of hiring the artist and related production costs as roughly $33,000 and said staff were considering offsetting that cost with parking fees and sponsorships. Staff proposed a $5 per-car parking fee (staff estimated $5 nd as high as $10 in different remarks) and said parking could generate meaningful offset revenue if thousands of cars attend. Staff also said food trucks and vendors will be invited and that alcohol sales are being considered pending permitting.

Board members raised concerns about charging for parking at a town event that historically has not charged, the need for clear advance advertising, potential spillover parking in industrial areas and payment logistics (cash vs. card). One board member proposed waiting to set a parking price until staff know sponsorship levels; staff agreed to return with a fuller plan and sponsor updates in February or March.

No final action on parking fees was taken Jan. 6; the board approved proceeding with event planning but asked staff to present a complete plan (including sponsor commitments and proposed parking fee) at a future meeting.