The Delavan Fall Festival Committee is exploring a significant investment in Lake Park, proposing a contribution of $15,000 to $20,000 toward long‑needed upgrades to the public restrooms. Vice President Beth Zimmer presented the idea to the Delavan City Council this week, emphasizing the committee’s desire to support improvements that benefit both festival attendees and the wider community.

Zimmer noted that the restrooms—heavily used during the annual festival—have been a recurring concern for visitors and volunteers. The committee, she said, wants to be part of a long‑term solution rather than relying on temporary fixes.

While council members expressed appreciation for the committee’s willingness to help, the discussion quickly turned to how the funds might be used most effectively. Alderman Douglas Bury suggested that the committee consider taking on the project themselves rather than donating money to the city.

According to Bury, statutory requirements placed on municipalities significantly increase labor and project costs, reducing the impact of donated funds. “Your money goes a whole lot further than ours does,” he told Zimmer, noting that volunteer‑driven or privately managed projects often avoid the regulatory expenses that accompany city‑led construction.

Bury’s comments were not a dismissal of the committee’s offer but a strategic suggestion, aimed at ensuring the festival’s contribution results in the greatest possible improvement. Other council members indicated they were open to continued discussion, including exploring whether a partnership model could be feasible.

The Fall Festival Committee plans to review its options in the coming weeks. No final decision has been made, but both the city and the committee expressed optimism that a collaborative path forward can be found—one that enhances Lake Park facilities ahead of future festival seasons.