February 06, 2004

Back to the Table of Contents Page

Back to the Weekly Home Page

Classifieds

Publication Date: Friday, February 06, 2004

City OKs $30,000 for Bernal Block Party

The Bernal Block Party on May 15 will be an opportunity for residents to experience the property through a community celebration. The City Council OK'd $30,000 on Tuesday night to pay for the festivities.

The event, taking place from 11 a.m.-4 p.m., will also be a chance for city leaders to get input from residents about how they want the property to be used.

"It will be kind of like a First Wednesday (Street Party) but with a tour," said City Manager Deborah McKeehan.

Volunteers and city staff are planning the event and to keep it moving forward, staff recommended council approving the $30,000.

Councilwoman Jennifer Hosterman expressed surprise that the city was funding the party. "I want to discuss whether we should sponsor this process," she said.

Other council members pointed out that the council had received a staff report in July on the party, noting there would be a fiscal impact.

The city gives financial support to several annual events, including the Hometown Holiday celebration and the Mayor's Award Dinner to honor commissioners, said Pamela Ott, Economic Development manager. Each has a budget of approximately $20,000.

Expenditures for the block party will include porta-potties, water stations, generators, garbage collection, staging areas, sound equipment and signs. The city will also help with street barricades, directing traffic and volunteers, and ensuring public safety.

The council approved the funding 4-1, with Hosterman opposed.

Bernal Block Party activities

E-mail a friend a link to this story.