Council waives 2026 event fees for recurring applicants and fills July 4 advisory committee seats

Council considered an annual authorization permitting the mayor to waive fees for recurring community events in 2026 at the Dec. 3 meeting. Staff said the groups are typical applicants for special-event permits and waivers.

The council moved to waive fees for the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the Lions Club, Greater Middleton Parks and Recreation District and the Middleton Chamber of Commerce. Councilmember Emerick amended the motion to add the Middleton School District for the homecoming parade; that amendment was accepted and the motion carried on a voice vote.

Separately, the council discussed nominations to the Fourth of July parade and fireworks advisory committee. Staff said the ordinance requires two city council members and several community volunteers. The council nominated and approved Jim Taylor and Tyson Sparrow (pending acceptance in one case) and affirmed that the final membership and any remaining council nominations would be revisited when newly elected councilmembers are seated.