Discuss the use of Holiday Event encumbered funds

The purpose of this case is to discuss the use of funds budgeted for the 2020 Employee Appreciation Holiday Event (that would have been used in January 2021) for the 2021 Employee Appreciation Holiday Event. City staff would like to inquire about encumbering these funds for the use of the 2021 Employee Appreciation Holiday Event.  The amount of $2,750 is budgeted for this event in each fiscal year.

Staff would also like to discuss the potential of separating out the Boards & Commissions Appreciation Event from the Employee Holiday Event as was the previous practice. The reasoning for this is that staff generally prefers a less formal venue and buffet-style food option, whereas, the Boards & Commissions Event would be a more formal event held in April.  Commission member terms typically expire on March 31, so the date in April allow recognition of outgoing Commission members as part of the program.

Staff is hoping to have Council consensus so invitations can be issued by November 12.

The funds needed for this action are included in the general fund budget.  

Communications & Events Coordinator Megan Thorstad
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Staff is seeking feedback in terms of having two, separate events - one for employees and one for Boards & Commissions. And, is also looking for direction in terms of funding the Employee Appreciation Holiday Event and the Commissioner Appreciation events using the combined 2021 and 2022 funding allocations..