GENESEE COUNTY, MI -- The Midwest Invitational Rodeo and Flint City Bucks could get financial support from the county, but that financial help could come with an additional requirement for both groups. The county Board of Commissioners approved resolutions to provide both with $15,000 in hotel taxes during a committee meeting on Wednesday, April 16, with the requirement that promoters credit commissioners for providing the money. County board Chairman Delrico Loyd asked for the change, saying the county board hasn’t received proper credit for sponsorships in the past. Loyd said the rodeo in particular has been promoted as “a city of Flint” event put on by the mayor of the city of Flint. “Nothing I’ve heard has reflected this is a partnership with Genesee County,” the chairman said. Neeley has announced his intention to seek a third term as mayor in 2026, and Loyd told MLive-The Flint Journal last month that he’s also been approached about running for mayor, calling the suggestions “something I’d definitely consider.” County Director of Administration Joshua Freeman said the rodeo, which also received funding from the county last year, did include signs indicating the county provided financial support in 2024. Freeman said the wording of contracts presented to commissioners on Wednesday included language requiring that advertising by Midwest and the Bucks include the county logo and the fact that it’s been provided funding by the county. At Loyd’s suggestion, commissioners amended the contracts to include language that the programs are “funded by vote of the Genesee County Board of Commissioners.” The rodeo is planned for June 13-14 at the county fairgrounds. Last year, the event -- featuring some of the nation’s top Black cowboys and cowgirls -- sold out. Funding for the Bucks would be used for a June 25 match between the Flint soccer squad and Atlas FC from Guadalajara, Mexico. In materials provided to commissioners, Freeman said the game is expected to draw at least 3,000 fans from throughout the region at Kettering University’s Atwood Stadium. Commissioners could give both resolutions final approval when they meet as a full board next week. Want more Flint-area news? Bookmark the local Flint news page or sign up for the free “3@3 Flint” daily newsletter.