Band boosters request $3,000 for car show; commission suggests marketing support and asks for more detail

Representatives of the band boosters told the Scott County Business Commission on June 16 that their fourth annual car show is a major fundraiser and brings visitors into the county, and they requested $3,000 to help with trophies, supplies and potential facility repairs.

The presenters said the band and booster operations rely heavily on their fair booth and fundraising: "we use probably 18,000 for our fair booth," one presenter said when describing past expenditures, and they reported past net profit from the car show of about $1,500. The applicants said they would like help with advertising, trophies (about 20 trophies at roughly $30–$50 apiece) and some building repairs at the fair booth.

Commissioners recommended the group prioritize advertising and marketing to expand attendance rather than spend funds on awards alone. One commissioner said, "if we're going to fund anything... that is for advertisement and marketing," noting a modest ad spend on Facebook can significantly boost visibility. Commissioners asked the applicants to provide a clearer budget and indicated they preferred applicants appear in person for Q&A before approving larger amounts; no award decision was recorded at the meeting.

The presenters gave event timing as July 11 (rain date July 12) and said growth ambitions include radio and print ads to attract visitors from neighboring counties. Commissioners offered to assist with marketing channels but declined to commit the requested funds without more detailed budget information and, for larger requests, an in-person presentation.