The council’s primary focus was on organizing an impressive Founders Day event scheduled around July 2nd and 4th. The aim is to develop an annual celebration that attracts both locals and visitors. Discussions included ideas for a family-friendly environment with activities such as a parade featuring local veterans and emergency services, along with a vendor market to support local businesses. The committee expressed enthusiasm for the inclusion of live music and fireworks synchronized with music, creating a dynamic experience for attendees. The potential for incorporating innovative elements like drone displays was also considered, inspired by successful examples from neighboring areas.

A key point of debate centered on the timing and branding of the event. Some members questioned the appeal of the “Founders Day” name. Despite differing opinions, a consensus emerged to schedule fireworks on July 3rd, optimizing vendor availability and drawing attendees from nearby towns. The committee also deliberated on the feasibility of day-long activities, considering the impact of the event’s timing on public participation.

Financial considerations were another major topic, particularly regarding the cost of fireworks, with estimates reaching up to $1,500 per minute. The council emphasized the importance of securing sponsorships and community donations, while exploring grant opportunities to offset expenses. The Minnesota Humanities Center offers a grant of up to $200,000 for festivals and cultural events, presenting an opportunity for funding. The committee plans to request $24,999 to simplify the application process and focus on covering public safety costs.

In addition to event planning, the council discussed the formal establishment of the Founders Day Committee. The committee’s composition includes five members, appointed by the mayor and approved by the city council. The structure also includes roles such as chair, vice chair, and secretary, with monthly meetings planned to ensure regular oversight and communication.

The committee’s responsibilities extend beyond event planning, encompassing the review and recommendation of city-sponsored special events, financing methods, and member accountability. The council emphasized the importance of active participation from all members, with a clear outline of their roles and responsibilities. There was a call to specify which events fall under the committee’s purview.

Transparency and collaboration were recurring themes, particularly in financial matters. The council stressed the need for public records of the committee’s transactions and resolutions, along with monthly reports to the city council and annual summaries. Concerns were raised about the potential deterrent effect of strict financial oversight on community donations, advocating for a more open and approachable process to encourage contributions.

The council also discussed the mayor’s authority regarding committee member appointments and removals, with recommendations to include this in the committee’s bylaws. This stems from past experiences where disagreements led to committee member removals.

Finally, the council addressed the logistics of grant writing and the need for efficient processes. The potential involvement of Scott Pelava, noted for his operational expertise, was discussed as a valuable resource for spearheading grant applications. The urgency of submitting a grant application by the November 17 deadline was acknowledged, with members encouraged to provide feedback on grant ideas promptly.