Main Street reports 1,500-attendee concert, receives $20,000 America250 grant for Roberts monument; new Main Street/tourism director introduced

Jean, a representative of the Main Street Historic District, told the Livingston City Council that Saturday’s downtown concert drew “about 1,500 people here from a multiple of probably 10 states,” and included an international visitor.

Jean said city staff, police and volunteers worked together for a smooth event and that the success has helped build momentum for downtown activities. She also reported that Main Street secured a $20,000 America250 grant to place a monument for Roberts; the project was scaled down from an earlier concept that would have cost about $100,000.

Zach Stevens, director of the Chamber of Commerce, said a memorandum of understanding between Main Street, the Chamber, the City and Overton County enabled the jurisdictions to hire a combined Main Street and tourism director. “That is going to allow us or has allowed us to hire a main street and a tourism director in one position,” Stevens said.

Morgan White introduced herself to the council as the person filling that combined role, saying she joined from the development district and is “excited to be working in Livingston and Overton County in tourism and for Main Street.”

Why it matters: The concert’s attendance suggests a regional draw for Livingston events, the America250 grant provides dedicated funding for a local commemorative project, and the consolidated director position centralizes responsibilities for downtown and tourism promotion. The council did not take any formal votes related to the grant or the hire during the meeting.

Next steps: Main Street will continue work on the Roberts monument design to fit the $20,000 grant, and the council or staff will provide further scheduling or budget details as the project develops.