A Lady Lake commissioner is asking the Town Commission to reconsider funding for the town’s annual Christmas Parade after officials recently announced the longtime holiday event would not take place this year.

Commissioner Amanda McLea, who represents Ward 2, says she has requested an agenda item for the Monday, Oct. 19 Town Commission meeting to discuss fully funding the parade through a budget amendment.

The town previously announced the parade had been canceled amid budget constraints, uncertainty surrounding Amendment 3 and the significant staffing and operational resources required to safely host the event. Town officials estimated personnel costs alone at approximately $15,000, not including other expenses necessary to produce the event.

At the time, the town’s announcement, issued by Communications Director Elisha Pappacoda, called the decision “extremely difficult” and said future events would be evaluated based on available funding, fundraising efforts, resources and operational needs.

The town also said in its announcement that its ability to hold community events going forward will largely depend on fundraising, sponsorships and other outside support rather than taxpayer funds.

McLea now says that while the Christmas Parade was included in the town’s budget, enough money was not allocated to cover the event in its entirety, leaving the town to seek sponsorships and fundraising to make up the difference.

“I do not believe this is an appropriate approach to funding an established community tradition that was already anticipated in our annual budget,” McLea says. “While I recognize the importance of fiscal responsibility and appreciate the generosity of our community sponsors, I believe we have a responsibility to adequately plan for and fund events that have become an important part of our Town’s identity.”

McLea says the parade brings together residents, families, businesses and community organizations and has become an important Lady Lake tradition.

“The annual Christmas Parade brings together our residents, families, local businesses and community organizations,” she says. “It is a tradition that contributes to the spirit and character of Lady Lake, and I believe it deserves our consideration and support.”

During the Oct. 19 meeting, McLea plans to ask her fellow commissioners to consider a budget amendment that would fully fund the parade.

“I understand the financial challenges facing our Town, and I remain committed to responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars,” she says. “However, I also believe we must evaluate our priorities and recognize the importance of preserving the traditions that bring our community together.”

The commission’s discussion could determine whether the Christmas Parade, previously canceled for 2026, may still return this holiday season.