Agenda item

(A report by the Events Officer)

The Portfolio Holder presented the report and confirmed that the BTAC budget incorporated a variety of services for the residents of Boston including the delivery of a varied events programme throughout the financial year. The report provided an update and recommendations on the 2025/26 programme for the Committee, proposals for the annual programme, and budgeted financial breakdowns to support Committee in its deliberations.

Members comments included the following:

The Portfolio Holder clarified that Members were to decide whether to spend an extra £17,000 above the budget as option 2 or stick to the £41,500, as option 1.

Addressing a question regarding the background and circumstances surrounding the experience of the businesses taking up an interest on organising these events, the Portfolio Holder advised that although the project was in the early stages, discussions were being held with well-known and financially secure businesses.

Concerns were raised around whether the extra spending option could stretch for the Council’s budget. Calls were made around the possibility of considering sponsorship to cover some of these events which would release the financial burden on the Council. The Portfolio Holder advised that the extra cost would be outweighed by the opportunities brought to the local community and businesses, opening more capability for outside vendors and charities. The Chairman supported the idea of sponsorship and suggested it be taken into consideration.

Councillor Gilbert noted the absence of Boston Big Local as a contributor to the finance of these events and stressed the importance of maintaining the funding in Boston to accommodate events for the community.

Councillor Gleeson advised that although external funding may come at a future date, which would allow the Council to save or relocate that money, there was a need to allocate the money at this stage.

Responding to a question raised by Councillor Woodliffe about whether these events were insured against the financial risks, the Chairman advised all events should be insured.

Councillor Ghosh sought clarification on whether the £17,000 was an estimation and whether earning potentials of the impact of these events had been calculated. The Community Development Manager advised that the £17,000 would be the maximum budget needed to cover the event. Additionally, it was advised that the sponsorship option had been considered and that although they envisioned it as a free event, some options to produce income had been considered, such as the possibility of charging store holders.

Councillor Dorrian reiterated that should sponsorship be found, that money would be utilised. Councillor Dorrian shared her wishes for delivering a Boston Pride Parade next year which would require an increase to the current budget. The Portfolio Holder referred to the recent East Coast Pride event which had been successfully organised by East Lindsey District Council and showed disposition to have further discussions with the Leader of the Council and the Events Officers.

The Chairman advised that sponsorship provided a lot of opportunities for local business which had been reflected in the Christmas event. It was highlighted as a platform to explore how to maximise further opportunities.

Responding to a query raised by Councillor Izard about the possibility of allowing private groups to organise events later in the year, the Portfolio Holder advised that it would be the Council’s main priority and suggested that businesses contact the Council should they have an interest in organising any events.

Councillor Savickiene advised that the event would support people with mental health conditions due to the benefit derived by music as well as by bringing people into the town.

Councillor Broughton advised that the music event could be recognised as a way of integrating all communities together.

Consensus from Members was found around supporting the extra spending.

The Chairman commented that events brought people together, showed a proactive community and helped to promote the town.

Councillor Gleeson proposed the recommendation and supported the amendment by Councillor Dorrian of requesting a report for BTAC’s next meeting where the cost of a pride event would be reflected in order to carry out a budget review. Councillor Dani seconded the proposal.

RESOLVED:

That Budget Option 2 - £58,500 including £17,000 funding for Christmas Festival, and £17,000 for a BTAC funded Music Event be approved.