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Soddy‑Daisy band director requests city help for instruments, announces free US Navy Band concert
Summary
Joshua Light told commissioners the high‑school band needs up to $76,000 for new instruments (or about $15,000 per year) and announced a free US Navy Band concert Feb. 14, 2024; the board could not vote on a donation at the meeting.
Joshua Light, band director at Soddy‑Daisy High School, introduced himself and asked the commission to consider financial assistance for the school music program. Light said the band faces equipment needs that could be addressed by a one‑time $76,000 donation for new instruments or by roughly $15,000 per year over five years. He told commissioners the program costs about $200,000 a year and that student contributions of about $400 annually account for roughly 40% of that total.
Light also announced that the US Navy Band will perform in a free concert on Feb. 14, 2024; the event will require distribution of tickets and is expected to draw about 1,500 people. City Attorney Elliott and City Manager Johnson reminded the board that, under current procedural rules cited at the meeting, the commission could not vote on a donation that was not listed on the agenda; any donation discussion would need to be placed on a future agenda for formal consideration.
Why it matters: The request frames a demand for sustained or one‑time municipal support for a school arts program and includes a major cultural event that could draw regional attendance.
