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The Monticello Advertising and Promotion Commission approved funding for the Monticello Rodeo and received updates on upcoming events during its recent meeting.
Commission members first approved the minutes from the previous meeting and the February financial report without opposition.
The commission welcomed guest Colleen Hammock, who presented plans for the 2026 Monticello Rodeo, scheduled for September 18–19.
Hammock reported strong attendance at last year’s event, with more than 500 people attending each night, and noted growing interest from contestants. She said the rodeo’s success has even inspired nearby communities, including Star City, to begin hosting similar events.
To continue that momentum, Hammock requested financial assistance to increase “added money” — prize funds used to attract competitors.
Currently, the Monticello Rodeo offers approximately $3,600 in total added money across nine events, significantly below the $10,000 commonly offered by similar rodeos, according to Hammock.
Hammock explained that increasing prize money is key to drawing more contestants, which in turn boosts attendance and overall event success. She also noted that gate proceeds largely go toward covering the $10,000 cost of the stock contractor, limiting the organization’s ability to increase prize payouts on its own.
Following discussion, the commission approved funding to support the rodeo. The final motion included a total of $7,500, with $6,500 designated for added prize money and an additional $1,000 allocated for related expenses. The funds will come from the commission’s festivals account, with a budget amendment to be made at a later date.
Commission members also received an update on the upcoming Spring on the Square event.
Amanda Laudell, Marketing Liaison for the City of Monticello, reported that 33 vendors and 12 food trucks have already committed to participate in the event. Plans for live entertainment are also in place, with a performance contract structured as a 50 percent deposit upfront and the remaining balance due on the day of the event. The commission approved motions to cover expenses associated with the event.
It was also discussed that a bass fishing tournament will be held at Lake Monticello May 16. This will be the first official tournament since the lake has re-opened.
Additionally, members noted that the Monticello City Council recently approved the purchase of a stage that will be used for community events such as Spring on the Square.
