City Council:
AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE CITY OF
MOUNT VERNON RECREATION DEPARTMENT TO
CO-SPONSOR THE 2026 BACK-TO-SCHOOL BACKPACK
EVENT WITH HENRY ALLEN AND THE BUDDY WHITE
PROJECT, AUTHORIZING THE TEMPORARY CLOSURE
OF 7TH AVENUE BETWEEN 3RD STREET AND 4TH STREET,
AND PROVIDING RELATED MUNICIPAL SERVICES
Whereas, in correspondence dated June 16, 2026, the Commissioner of the Department of Recreation formally requested authorization to co-sponsor the 2026 Back-to-School Backpack Event with Henry Allen and The Buddy White Project on Saturday, August 1, 2026 and is scheduled to take place from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with setup beginning at 8:00 a.m. and cleanup occurring immediately following the conclusion of the event; and; and
Whereas, The Buddy White Project, founded by Mr. Henry Allen, is dedicated to investing time and resources in early childhood educational initiatives and promoting educational opportunities for youth throughout the City of Mount Vernon; and
Whereas, the event will provide backpacks, school supplies, educational resources, referrals, and related services predominantly in Kindergarten through Eighth Grade through partnerships with local community-based organizations, businesses, and corporations; and
Whereas, the event will be conducted primarily at the Doles Recreation Center, with additional activities taking place at 4th Street Park; and
Whereas, the organizers have requested the temporary closure of 7th Avenue between 3rd Street and 4th Street in order to safely accommodate students, families, vendors, and event participants accessing the event and its activities; and
Whereas, the event will include inflatable amusement devices, approximately three (3) banners or signs, sound equipment, tents measuring approximately 10 feet by 10 feet, food preparation utilizing barbecue grills, and the need for access to electricity and water connections; and
Whereas, the applicant has stated that all barbecue...
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