Trustees approve $10,000 town contribution to revive ‘Music in the Park’ concert series

The Town of Carbondale unanimously approved a $10,000 contribution on June 9 to the Western Mosaic Fund to support a four‑date summer concert series called Music in the Park.

Organizer Cat, representing Western Mosaic, described the program as a modest, family‑oriented revival of an older series with an emphasis on local partnerships, youth performers and limited vendor presence to preserve downtown restaurants’ revenue. "We want Carbondale to be a place where people feel well cared for and well taken care of," Cat said, describing plans to work with local restaurants on picnic‑to‑go options and to invite local farms and youth entrepreneurs to participate.

Trustees discussed scheduling, the potential economic benefit to downtown businesses, and how the event might coordinate with the tourism board and new lodging tax grant programs. Several trustees suggested evaluating whether Saturdays would draw more customers for restaurants; others preferred Sundays for the family atmosphere.

Board members confirmed that Kade Giannetti — an organizer with prior involvement in the festival and noted in the meeting — will recuse from decisions if his role creates a conflict. Trustees voted 5–0 to authorize $10,000 for the 2026 series. The allocation will be managed with the town and Western Mosaic coordinating spending; trustees said they expect a fall debrief to evaluate outcomes and to discuss whether, and how, the town should support future seasons.

The grant was described by staff as a one‑time 2026 contribution; trustees signaled willingness to explore longer‑term funding options (including tourism grant dollars) during next year’s budget cycle.