Board approves four‑year GFNY sponsorship with up to $30,000 annually, subject to review

The board voted to approve a four‑year sponsorship agreement with GFNY, an international cycling marathon series, to move the event entirely into Hardee County beginning Oct. 1, 2026. The commitment was described as up to $30,000 annually, with $15,000 expected to come from the Board of County Commissioners and $15,000 from the Tourist Development Council (TDC), subject to county attorney review and county manager authorization.

Lacey Webb, Parks, Recreation and Marketing Manager (speaker 13), explained the county-hosted proposal would place the start and finish and prerace expo in Hardee County and leverage local spending by participants and accompanying guests. “Their track is in Hardee County, but the start and finish line is in Sebring,” Webb said; the proposal would move the entire event and associated economic activity to Hardee County.

Lydia (speaker 2), the GFNY representative on the line, emphasized local volunteer participation, aid stations and the economic multiplier of lodging, food and local purchases. Commissioners asked about the course and the funding source; staff clarified the BOCC contribution would be budgeted for the next fiscal year and that the TDC has reserves to support its half of the sponsorship.

Committee member (speaker 9) moved to approve the sponsorship agreement for a four‑year partnership beginning Oct. 1, 2026, not to exceed $30,000 annually; the motion specified review by the county attorney and authorization for the county manager to sign necessary documents. The motion passed by voice vote.

Staff said the item would be budgeted for next fiscal year and that the TDC and BOCC would each plan for $15,000 in the first two years, with the TDC intending to assume the full cost later if local tourism revenue supports that change. The board asked staff to return contract documents to the attorney and county manager for final approval.