Tourism Commission approves 2019 Banana Festival budget

Fulton Tourism Commission’s board members present for the June 13 regular session gave their stamp of approval for the 2019 Banana Festival’s proposed budget, as presented by Executive Director Thea Vowell.

While Vowell was not present for the meeting, board chair Terri Harvey, John Gambill, Peggy Tribble, Pat Frazier and Melanie Gunn reviewed the budget, totaling $89,275, increased from the 2018 festival budget, at $74,975.

Among changes made for the 2019 budget, was the addition of $10,000 for entertainment, a new event, the “Pudding Path” with a budget of $200, the discontinuance of the Kiddie Parade with the adding in of a “kiddie” category to the Grand Parade and a $600 increase in the utilities line item in the Banana Festival budget.

Gunn explained to the board that she would oversee the Pudding Path event, which would include teams representing non-profit entities, who would create versions of banana pudding, which the public would be able to sample with a $5 per person fee. The public’s favorite choice from all team participants would be voted on through contributions inside the Pontotoc building. All proceeds would then be distributed to the non-profits.

Information also supplied to board members regarding the festival included the 2018 festival income at $54,344.05 and expenses at $72,837.37.

Board members discussed the increase in utilities, with John Gambill stating he believed the increase was the result of Fulton Electric System charging the festival, in addition to extra electricity usage on vendor row, for connecting and disconnecting the power sources at those locations for use by festival vendors.

Board member Pat Frazier suggested inquiring to the Fulton Electric System board as to the reason for the additional charges, and also requesting more information regarding the $5,000 budgeted for the Rotary Club to coordinate and man the Car Show.

Minutes from the May meeting as well as May financials were approved as presented.