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Port Richey committee sets ticket prices, sponsorship tiers and theme for Sept. 11 Mayor’s Ball
Summary
At a committee meeting, Port Richey organizers set individual ticket prices at $125, established sponsorship tiers (presenting sponsor $10,000 down to $500 ad level), and agreed on a Sept. 11-focused theme summarized as “Honoring our heroes.” Staff were directed to finalize the sponsorship packet and ticketing logistics.
The Port Richey events committee on an in-person meeting finalized pricing and sponsorship plans for the Sept. 11 Mayor’s Ball, agreeing to $125 individual tickets, a discounted table of eight at $900, and a set of sponsorship tiers with a presenting sponsor at $10,000.
The committee said it chose a Sept. 11 observance and first-responders focus for this year’s fundraiser. Member Christina Fitzpatrick said the working name that best captured that balance was “Honoring our heroes.”
Why it matters: organizers expect the ball to be both a remembrance and a local fundraiser for first-responder–oriented charities; committee members framed the event as a high-profile sponsorship opportunity and a donor-engagement vehicle for the city.
Details agreed by the committee include individual tickets at $125, a discounted table of eight at $900, and a table-sponsor package (program recognition and centerpiece) at $1,500. Sponsorship levels discussed for inclusion in the packet were: $10,000 (presenting sponsor, table included), $5,000 (major sponsor), $2,500, $1,500 (table sponsor), and $500 (program ad or recognition). Members also discussed limiting or reserving a small number of 10-seat tables for VIPs and dignitaries.
On fundraising mechanics, the committee directed staff to explore a nonprofit ticketing option to accept and segregate proceeds for residents-only programming. The committee discussed using Zeffy, a nonprofit payment platform, to reduce fees and allow a nonprofit to receive event funds on behalf of the city; staff were asked to report back on feasibility and accounting controls.
Raffle and gaming questions surfaced during the conversation: a committee member cautioned that 50/50 raffles are “considered gambling” under state rules and may trigger reporting and tax obligations, and the group asked staff to confirm what is permissible and how to administer prizes legally.
Follow-ups and next steps: staff were instructed to finalize the sponsorship packet and ticket-sales process, confirm whether Zeffy can be used to accept funds, prepare marketing and “save the date” materials, and return with a final sponsorship package for approval. The committee also discussed menu options (an estimated catering cost of about $68 per person) and the size and format of a program book.
A motion to adjourn closed the meeting.
