Civic Celebrations Commission Meeting 8-24-2026 - 7 PM

The City of Franklin, Wisconsin, Civic Celebrations Commission met on August 24, 2026, to review the recent celebration’s finances and discuss planning for 2027. Members reviewed income and expenses, including ticket deposits of about $61,000 (up from roughly $59,000 the prior year) and entertainment costs of $33,350. They discussed other festival expenses, including rentals and bar equipment, police and DPW services, and purchases such as reusable coolers. The commission considered possible cost reductions, including buying some rented bar structures, but raised storage, transport, and labor concerns; no purchasing decision was made. Members also discussed sponsorships and donations as a way to address rising costs.

For 2027 entertainment and event planning, members noted that the existing Bella Kane agreement locks in a price for the coming year but does not require the commission to book the band; Glam Band and Five Card Studs were also discussed. A drone-show quote had risen from about $13,000 previously to $40,000, which members considered too costly. The commission discussed holding the celebration July 2–4 and possibly offering carnival rides on Monday, July 5, but the transcript records no final date vote or spending approval. No contract award or procurement approval was identified.