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Council backs planning and budget request for Country Christmas as costs rise
Summary
Councilors supported staff direction to include a larger Country Christmas budget request in the next budget cycle and to pursue sponsorships after staff reported rising vendor costs. Staff cited increases such as the ice-rink provider rising from around $3,000 to $5,495 compared with prior years.
Council members discussed Lucas Country Christmas planning and preliminary budgeting Sept. 19 and signaled support for staff to request increased funding in the next budget cycle and to pursue sponsorships to offset higher vendor costs.
Development and events staff noted rising costs for attractions and equipment, including an example in which an ice-rink option rose from about $3,000 to $5,495 compared with earlier years. "Over the years, costs associated with popular activities have risen significantly," staff said, urging that the council consider a budget request for fiscal year 2025–26 to preserve event features.
Council and staff discussed sponsorships and past practices; the mayor noted that the city previously used sponsors for food and raffle items and staff said they are exploring sponsors and contractors. Council reached consensus to continue planning, incorporate sponsorship outreach and include a budget request in the next budget cycle. Staff will return with firm cost estimates and proposed sponsorship arrangements.
Next steps: staff to pursue sponsorships, finalize cost estimates, and include a Country Christmas line item in the next budget.
