A point of discussion was Ordinance 2025-335, which aims to amend Chapter 30 of the Lonsdale City Code, thereby formalizing the Founders Day Committee. The ordinance outlines the committee’s composition, responsibilities, and procedural requirements. It specifies that the committee will consist of five members, including one non-voting council liaison and a staff member recommended by the mayor. Terms of appointment vary from one to four years, and members must take an oath before commencing their duties. The committee is tasked with advising on city-sponsored historical events and must provide monthly updates to the council, culminating in an annual report. The ordinance is set for a public hearing on November 24, 2025, inviting community feedback.

The discussion on the organizational structure extended to the election of committee officers. A chairperson will serve a four-year term, while the vice chairperson and secretary will serve one-year terms, with the possibility of re-election. Notably, members absent from three consecutive meetings are considered to have resigned unless an explanation is provided. The mayor retains the authority to remove a member with majority council approval. The committee is expected to maintain detailed records and present reports to ensure accountability.

Concurrently, the committee was urged to expedite the planning of the Founders Day event. Key elements such as fireworks, street dances, and community engagement activities were prioritized. The committee faced the challenge of organizing the event without existing city funding, necessitating an urgent push for fundraising efforts. Ideas like a cornhole tournament and barbecue cook-off were proposed as potential self-funded activities through entry fees. Partnerships with local businesses were deemed critical, with Rail 19 and other potential sponsors being approached to secure commitments.

The council also debated the naming of the event, with a goal of selecting a title that reflects both the historical significance of Lonsdale’s founding and the community’s spirit. Suggestions like “Lonsdale Heritage Festival,” “Founders Festival,” and “Willoughby Day,” named after the town’s founder, Thomas Willoughby, were considered. A consensus was reached to present a shortlist of three names to the council, emphasizing the importance of a memorable and distinctive title that differentiates the event from others in the region.

Amid the planning, there was a strong focus on ensuring financial transparency and accountability. The committee discussed the need for a temporary treasurer to oversee fundraising efforts and maintain careful financial records. Concerns were raised about the management and allocation of funds, with a clear preference for keeping the committee’s finances distinct from other city budgets to prevent misappropriation. A proposed tiered sponsorship model would ensure donor recognition and clarity on fund usage.

Furthermore, the council addressed the potential collaboration with the local ACES organization, highlighting the need for effective communication and structured outreach to avoid redundancy. The importance of direct engagement with community businesses was stressed, with a personalized approach deemed more effective than traditional fundraising methods. The committee acknowledged the contributions and resources available through Shauna, the local chamber of commerce director, but debated whether to involve her directly, given her existing commitments.

In closing, the council underscored the urgency of securing fireworks funding, with a quote of $18,000 presented. Discussions about contracts and deposits highlighted the necessity for prompt action to avoid jeopardizing the event. As the meeting concluded, reminders were issued for the next public hearing and council meeting dates.