Homegrown Music Festival looks to right finances, hire new leadership

June 20, 2026 - 03:07

The Homegrown Music Festival is working to get its financial house in order after a lapse in required filings, according to incoming board president Don Ness. Ness, who recently took the helm, said the organization is focused on returning to full compliance with state and federal regulations. The festival, a staple of the local music scene, fell behind on its annual financial reports, raising questions about its operational health.

Board members, however, are pushing back against any suggestion that the event is in serious danger. They insist the festival's future remains secure, even as they navigate a period of transition. Beyond the accounting issues, the board is also searching for new leadership to guide the festival forward. The current director is stepping down, leaving a key vacancy at a critical time.

Ness acknowledged the challenges but expressed confidence in the team's ability to right the ship. He emphasized that the festival's mission to showcase local talent remains strong, and that the organization is taking deliberate steps to rebuild trust with sponsors and the community. The board plans to hire a new director by early next year, with a focus on long-term sustainability rather than just short-term fixes. For now, organizers are asking for patience as they work through the paperwork and prepare for the next season.