The Carbondale Public Arts Commission voted Nov. 5 to allocate up to $1,000 from its 2025 budget to buy a portable sound system for use on art walks and outdoor events.

Commissioners discussed two main speaker options presented at the meeting: a Mackie Thump system (roughly $710 all-in with microphone and accessories) and a Bose portable speaker (roughly $850 all-in). The commission’s packet showed the accounts list and an estimated remaining balance of about $1,282.42 after the town agreed to cover a cost for a damaged sculpture. Members proposed reserving about $300 of the remaining balance for café-card or promotional costs and using approximately $1,000 for the speaker purchase.

During discussion members compared weight, battery life and microphone options, and debated corded versus wireless transmitters. Some members favored the lower-cost Mackie to leave funds available for a possible donation to the luminaries project run by Carbondale Arts; others favored the Bose for perceived clarity and durability. Staff indicated both speakers accept standard XLR microphones and that existing microphones could be tested before purchase.

On a motion to allocate up to $1,000 for a portable sound system, commissioners voted in favor (voice vote: three ayes) and the motion passed. The commission asked staff to order and test the system promptly so it could be used before December events. Members also discussed practical carrying options (carts or wagons) and the need for at least one wireless microphone to allow announcers or artists to move away from the speaker.

Following the vote members noted the option to redirect any unspent portion of the $1,000 toward the luminaries project at Carbondale Arts, depending on final purchase price and shipping costs.