Commission reviews four anniversary event packages ranging from $145K to $216K; commissioners split over beach vs. Gateway venue and scope

City staff presented four options and approximate costs for the upcoming city anniversary event (scheduled for June 2) and asked commissioners to indicate a preferred package so vendors, permitting and logistics could proceed on a compressed timeline.

The options were: Option 1 — Sampson Park with barbecue and concert but no drone show (~$167,000, requiring an $8,000 budget amendment); Option 2 — Sampson Park with barbecue and drone show but no concert (~$152,000, funded from unspent event funds); Option 3 — Gateway with barbecue, concert and a small children's play area (~$145,000); and Option 4 — replicate last year’s level with concert, drone show and free barbecue on the beach (~$216,000, requiring a $50,000 amendment).

Commissioners discussed accessibility for elderly residents, parking constraints, the sampling feedback from recent food tastings, and whether the city should host such an event annually or only on milestone years. Mayor Svachin and several commissioners noted the success of last year’s evening beach event and favored maintaining a similarly ambitious program with music and drone displays; other commissioners urged fiscal restraint and suggested celebrating every five years instead of annually.

Given the short lead time and vendor commitments, staff asked for direction. Commissioners expressed split preferences: one favored Option 4 to preserve the full experience on the beach, another preferred Gateway (Option 3) for accessibility, and others proposed holding a Memorial Day‑themed event on June 2 or moving to a less costly model. The commission did not take a formal vote but directed staff to finalize logistics and report back where budget amendments are required.

Next steps: staff will finalize vendor selections, provide precise cost breakdowns for the preferred option(s), confirm accessibility accommodations and propose any required budget amendments at the next meeting.