2026-10-14 Community Activities Commission

The City of Newcastle Community Activities Commission meeting on October 14, 2026, covered community events, volunteer recognition, and the commission’s 2027 work plan. The main spending discussion concerned the annual volunteer appreciation event: Resonate’s minimum purchase had increased by $1,000 and excludes an 18% service charge, bringing the estimated cost to nearly $5,000. Commissioners agreed to pursue several options before committing, including asking the city manager whether the budget could be increased, checking availability and costs with local businesses (including Dos Chimekos and Regency), and considering a smaller event at the YMCA, library, or city chambers if other options do not work. Staff and commissioners were to follow up promptly, using an estimated attendance of 100 when making inquiries; no spending approval or venue selection was made at the meeting.

The commission also reviewed Newcastle Days, which included nine food vendors, 70 booth vendors, and three youth booths, and requested feedback to inform next year’s event. Other topics included upcoming Arbor Day tree-planting events, organizing a community-supported Veterans Day ceremony, and seeking council direction and priorities for the 2027 work plan. No contract award, bid approval, or other procurement decision was identified.