Paducah Approves Two-Year Contract with BBQ

Paducah leaders have approved a new two-year contract with BBQ on the River, Inc.

At Tuesday's Paducah City Commission meeting, the Mayor and Commissioners approved a municipal order for a two-year contract with Barbecue on the River, Inc. Commissioner Carol Gault abstained from the vote. The agreement outlines the City’s in-kind support for the annual, charitable festival and BBQ’s obligations to the City.

As part of the agreement, BBQ on the River shall file the necessary permit for the festival and obtain the liability insurance, provide an annual presentation at a City Commission meeting, and provide to the Finance Department a financial statement for the most recently ended calendar year, a copy of I.R.S. Form 990, a confirmation of the organization’s current, tax-exempt status, and a list of all participating organizations, their donation amounts, and the recipients. Each food vendor at the festival is required to donate a minimum of 20 percent of their net profits to their designated charity recipient. Also, the City shall have one ex-officio board member to serve on the BBQ board of directors.

City Manager Jeff Pederson said the agreement shows how important BBQ on the River has become to Paducah. “The City provides in excess of $100,000 per year in in-kind support to make the festival possible. We are formally recognizing the important relationship between the City and BBQ.” Pederson said.

Pederson said the contract was drafted in complete consultation with BBQ on the River.