The Garden City City Council on Monday approved two purchases that fund and support the cityDance Express program: a $12,957 candy order for the annual fundraiser and an $18,114.50 costume invoice to be paid after the department confirms family payments.

Interim Parks & Recreation Director Zach King said the candy fundraiser typically returns about 40% of sales to the Dance Express program and helps pay program operations and prizes. "This fundraiser brings in 40% of the sales, from the candy box sales. That helps, with operations of the program itself," King said.

Council approved the purchase agreement with World's Finest Chocolate for $12,957. Mayor Pro Tem Dole moved the measure, with Council member Witt supporting, and it passed 7-0.

King also presented a final costume invoice from Weasman Costumes after staff confirmed sizes and family payments. "The total amount now is $18,114.50," King said, noting the cost is a 100% pass-through to families and that he would ensure collected funds cover the invoice before the city issues payment. Council member King moved to authorize the interim director to sign the invoice, not to exceed $18,114.50; the measure passed 7-0.

Council discussed vendor selection for the candy fundraiser; staff said they solicited multiple quotes and selected the vendor that allows returns and offered the lowest effective cost to the program. The purchases will be processed as pass-throughs to the Dance Express program budget and are intended to keep the programoperations and student activities funded for the season.