Walton Hills approves funds for 75th village and U.S. 250th celebrations after debate over drone show cost

Walton Hills council approved Resolution 2026-11 on March 17 authorizing spending for the villages 75th anniversary and the United Statess 250th anniversary celebrations after an amendment to allow a drone show.

Council members debated the format and cost of the proposed program. A member moved to replace the word "laser" with "drone" in the resolutions whereas clause so the celebrations could include "fireworks and/or a drone show along with a DJ and refreshments." That amendment was seconded and advanced.

During discussion several council members questioned the price tag for a drone show. One member said they did not support a "$20,000 10 to 12 minute drone show" and suggested that "less than half of that" could instead fund a $10,000 fireworks display; another member noted that the council had set a maximum of $35,000 and argued the villages recently completed budget left room for the event. The transcript records these figures as discussed during the meeting; the ordinance text and vendor contracts were not included in the record.

The resolution as amended was adopted by voice vote; Councilwoman Allen recorded a No vote while other members voted Yes. The resolution declares an emergency and authorizes the mayor to expend funds for the stated celebratory events. The transcript does not specify the final contracted vendor, the exact amount to be spent, or a definitive plan (fireworks, drone vendor, or both) beyond the amended language permitting a drone show.

Next steps: the resolution authorizes the mayor to expend funds and staff indicated further logistical details and vendor selection would follow.