Commission approves 50% funding for FreedomFest with signed contract stipulation

The commission voted to provide 50% funding for FreedomFest — about half of the requested $89,002.50 — but required the organizer to provide a signed artist contract by April 30 as a condition of the award.

Sandy, the event organizer, presented a budget that allocated funds across advertising, talent, production and hospitality and said the event aims to be a free family celebration with a ticketed concert portion. She told commissioners that plans include billboards, radio buys and coordination with visitors bureaus to track attendance. “We just don't have specific…exact numbers because until we sign a contract, we don't know exactly what it's gonna cost,” Sandy said, asking for the commission’s decision to enable contract signing and promotion.

Commissioners pressed the organizer on timing and the ability to promote the event effectively given the limited lead time. One member said marketing for a major attraction typically needs six months lead time, and another asked for a firm artist contract before public announcements. “All we're saying is the contract we signed,” the Chair said; commissioners amended the funding motion to require a signed initial artist contract by April 30.

Members also asked how proceeds would be used and how much of future ticket revenue would be distributed back to supporting nonprofits. The organizer projected that between roughly 75% and 90% of net proceeds would go to nonprofits that helped with the event, but exact percentages were not finalized.

The commission approved the motion by voice vote and directed staff to document the award and the contract condition in writing. Staff will bring a written grant agreement and updated application language to the May meeting for final approval.