In action taken during its December 9 meeting, the Alpharetta City Council approved a resolution to cease funding for the annual Old Soldiers Day Parade. A recent review of events funded in whole or in part by the City noted that the City’s costs for the 2019 event amounted to more than $20,000.
R-2019-12-9-1987 A Resolution Regarding Funding-Sponsorship of the Old Soldiers Day Parade
“Sadly, a wonderful event that brings the people of Alpharetta together to celebrate United States veterans has become a platform for outside groups to champion their own personal agendas. So, under these circumstances it is no longer appropriate for the City to use taxpayer money to fund such an event,” Mayor Jim Gilvin stated.
“While we sincerely hope private organizations will continue to host the parade,” said Gilvin, “recent lawsuits by individuals affiliated with the Sons of Confederate Veterans have caused additional financial burdens to Alpharetta taxpayers while creating unwelcome distractions which defeat the whole purpose of public support for an event intended to unite our community in celebrating the heroes who make this great nation possible.”
City leaders stated that they would welcome the event’s continuation if an organization seeks a special event permit to run the Old Soldiers Day Parade absent public funding.