Cheverly council approves one‑time town support for Ward 1 Community Day

The Cheverly Mayor and Council approved a one‑time exception on April 20 to provide town support — including staff assistance with tables, chairs and parking — for a Ward 1 Community Day. The motion, made by Council Member Wade and seconded by Council Member Garces, passed 6‑0.

Town Administrator Delaine Galloway described the proposed support as staffing four employees for up to an eight‑hour day (worst‑case fiscal estimate presented as about $1,600). Vice Mayor expressed discomfort with committing that level of staffing for a ward‑led event and asked that the motion allow the administrator discretion to assess capacity. Galloway said the request will be evaluated through the town’s special‑events permit process and that staff will notify the council member if the date is not feasible.

Council debated whether the event should be characterized and marketed as a ‘Ward 1’ event or a town event; supporters said the event has historically been Ward‑named but welcomes the entire town. Members also asked that the administrator include the event's likely costs in the FY27 general government budget discussion next week so council can consider a line item if the planned frequency increases.

The motion approved “support to the extent practicable, including providing staff support where feasible,” with the town administrator tasked to confirm staffing availability, insurance and communications processes and to proceed only if the logistical review supports the date.

The decision formalizes short‑term support while the council continues work on a longer‑term written policy governing elected‑official‑initiated events.