Chesapeake Beach approves $80,000 budget amendment for holiday lighting

Chesapeake Beach’s Town Council approved an amendment to its FY2025–26 general fund on Jan. 15 to allocate $80,000 for holiday lighting.

The item—Ordinance O‑25‑19—was the subject of a public hearing at the start of the meeting. Treasurer Dan explained that the measure would increase the town’s holiday lighting budget by $80,000 to allow the town to purchase discounted displays outside the peak season. "The ordinance increases the holiday lighting allocation to budget by $80,000," Dan said during the hearing.

After other routine business, the council formally moved and seconded the ordinance and conducted a voice vote. Council members responded "aye," and the chair announced, "the ayes have it." No roll‑call tally was recorded in the public minutes.

What the vote means: The appropriation authorizes additional spending in the general fund for decorations and related installation costs; the council said in discussion it expects to purchase discounted items to reduce overall program costs in future seasons.

Next steps: The spending will be incorporated into the town’s amended FY2025–26 budget and implemented by the town’s public works and events staff, with Les King and Jay identified as leads on decorations.