Statement from the Jonesboro Christmas Parade Planning Committee

Statement from the Jonesboro Christmas Parade Planning Committee

In 2024, when the previous leadership of the Jonesboro Christmas Parade stepped down, a citizen-led planning committee assumed responsibility for organizing the event with the support and cooperation of the City of Jonesboro.

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An initial meeting was held at City Hall in July 2024 with the parade coordinator, city employees, and a representative of City Stars (who was also a city employee at the time) to establish the administrative structure for the parade. During that meeting, it was suggested and agreed that the parade would utilize City Stars, an existing nonprofit organization, as the administrative nonprofit.

In August 2024, the planning committee was formed and held its first meeting at City Hall. In October 2024, a designated bank account for the parade was opened.

All parade funds – including registration fees, donations, and sponsorships – were deposited into that account and were not deposited into or commingled with any City Stars accounts.

The planning committee organized the parade and maintained control of its finances.

The committee considered that, after expenses were satisfied and if funds remained, a donation could be made to a local nonprofit organization. The committee voted to designate City Stars as the recipient of any such donation.

The Jonesboro Christmas Parade serves the citizens and businesses of Jonesboro and is organized by a planning committee of local business owners, professionals, and civic participants.

The continued success of the Jonesboro Christmas Parade depends on participation from local businesses, organizations, and residents. Because this matter involves an ongoing investigation, the committee will not comment on that process.