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Anderson Black Expo granted Jackson Park dates; stage fee and amusement approvals left to staff
Summary
Anderson Black Expo organizers received board consensus to use Jackson Park Aug. 6–9 for their nearly 50-year summer festival; the city will set pricing for the new stage and review whether bounce houses or amusement rides can be permitted, with vendors requiring written approval at least 30 days in advance.
Jan Davis, president of Anderson Black Expo, told the Anderson City Parks Board on Feb. 3 that her organization is requesting Jackson Park for the Expo on Aug. 7–9, with a prayer walk and setup planned for Aug. 6. "This is a festival that's been going on almost 50 years," Davis said, and she cited Madison County Visitors Bureau data showing the event drew more than 1,700 people above regular traffic last year.
The board indicated consensus to allow the requested park dates. Board members did not take a formal roll-call vote on the rental dates; the chair asked for consensus and members signaled agreement.
Davis also asked to use the city’s new stage and to offer family attractions such as bounce houses or amusement rides. Staff told the board the city has not yet finalized pricing for the new stage and that, while nonprofits may be charged a reduced fee, the department will follow up with specific costs once they are determined. "We will get with you in the next couple of weeks and let you know," a staff member said.
On inflatable attractions, staff pointed to a 2024 addendum that "bounce houses and other such inflatables are strictly prohibited in all parks" except by express city approval. The board and staff said amusement-ride permitting is not yet resolved and likely would require written approval from the superintendent or mayor and additional vetting by the attorney’s office. Staff recommended organizers submit a vendor list and apply at least 30 days before the event to allow time for written approvals and permits.
Davis said she would "table" the amusement-ride request while she reviews ordinance language and discussed focusing this year on expanding youth programming and entertainment. The board asked staff to coordinate with the organizer on stage pricing, vendor approval timelines and any required permits. The meeting ended with the board thanking organizers and staff for their preparations.
Next steps: staff will provide the Expo organizers with stage pricing when available, formalize the vendor approval process (recommended 30-day lead time) and advise whether any amusement-ride exceptions can be made.
