Commission picks Charlotte Grace to run 2026 Freedom Festival after debate over cost and past sound complaints

The Collegedale City Commission on Nov. 3 awarded the 2026 Freedom Festival contract to Charlotte Grace Events after a lengthy discussion about price, production quality and last year’s noise complaints.

Staff presented two responsive bids: Charlotte Grace (a package the staff described as roughly $18,000 plus $5,000 for production, totaling about $23,000) and Friends of the Festival ($34,850). Although staff recommended Friends of the Festival for production capacity and experience, several commissioners said they were persuaded by Charlotte Grace’s proposal and the fact that its representatives were present to answer questions.

Tiffany, the owner of Charlotte Grace Events, told the commission her organization has experience on similar large events and would contract sound and production elements to local vendors as needed. “I have a large staffing crew that is very experienced,” she said. Her representative, Jeff Miller, said subcontracting sound is standard practice and that the firm would hire additional staff if necessary.

Concerns raised during discussion included loud music the previous year, unclear marketing/communications by the prior vendor, food‑truck capacity and whether the RFP included a rain date. Staff clarified that fireworks and other elements (reported separately at roughly $50,000–$55,000) are contracted independently and were not included in the event-management bids.

The vote: The commission approved Charlotte Grace Events by roll call; one commissioner abstained. Commissioners asked staff to tighten expectations on sound management and event logistics as the chosen contractor finalizes plans.

Next steps: Staff will finalize the contract and work with the selected vendor to confirm staffing, production and noise‑control measures and to publicize the event schedule and vendor registration.