Harbor Impact asks Benton Harbor commission to back three-year Gus Macker riverfront tournament

Linda Billups, treasurer of Harbor Impact Foundation, asked the Benton Harbor City Commission to back a three-year hosting agreement for the Gus Macker 3-on-3 basketball tournament on the city’s riverfront.

Billups told the commission the event — described in her presentation as a nationally recognized 3-on-3 tournament — would draw regional athletes, families and visitors and said the foundation has committed to a three‑year arrangement intended to produce recurring revenue and local economic activity. “The Gus Macker event will amplify recreation, unity and economic growth,” Billups said in her prepared remarks.

The foundation outlined logistical plans it said are designed to keep the event safe and family-oriented, including on-site referees, security and volunteer crowd‑management. Billups said the tournament would activate waterfront assets and provide marketplace opportunities for local vendors and hotels by increasing weekend visitation.

Commissioners asked about the level of city support needed. Billups said the foundation’s primary request was in-kind support: help recruiting volunteers and a formal resolution of support from the commission so sponsors and partners can plan for consecutive years. The chair and several commissioners expressed appreciation for the presentation and indicated they would place the item on the full commission agenda for a broader vote.

The commission did not take a final vote at the meeting; the item was moved forward to be considered by the full body at its next scheduled session.