Board approves $2,500 sponsorship for Dallas College 'Uncle Joe's' cookout

The Balch Springs Economic Development Corporation voted unanimously Sept. 9 to approve a marketing sponsorship — not to exceed $2,500 — for Dallas College Cedar Valley's 'Uncle Joe's' fall cookout on Sept. 23. The funding will come from the EDC's advertising and promotions line and staff recommended the sponsorship to help market Balch Springs to students and regional visitors.

Dr. Seabrooks, introduced by staff as the campus president, told the board the event runs from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and "we currently boast, an enrollment, exceeding 10,000 students," adding the cookout typically draws large student and community attendance. Board members asked procedural questions about recusals after two members said they work for Dallas College and would not participate in the vote; staff confirmed recusal was appropriate but the motion proceeded with other members voting in favor. After the vote staff confirmed arrangements for city signage and invited board members to be on the guest list.