Opp High School band director Randy Hughey asked the Opp City Council for monetary support for its biggest fundraiser of the year.

Hughey, who has been band director at OHS for 21 years, said the 34th annual Little Big Horn Marching Band competition is set for Oct. 18.

“We are the longest running competition in the Southeast,” he said. “We have never failed to make a date.”

Hughey said the competition is a big economic boost and provides publicity to the City of Opp.

Hughey said bands and patrons come to Opp and purchase gas, eat at restaurants and some even spend the night.

Hughey explained that the band program was 100 percent self-sufficient with the exception of his salary and the utility bill for the band room.

Money raised from the competition goes to fund uniforms, travel and instruments.

Hughey explained to the city council that when he became band director, the city had already committed to donating $500 per year to the event.

During that time, a mayor’s award was presented.

However, Hughey said eight to 10 years ago, the previous administration informed him that funding was not available.

“I’m asking you to reconsider reinstating the contribution,” Hughey said.

Hughey explained that previously the $500 had covered the majority of the awards given out, but now the band boosters average spending about $2,635 on trophies.

“We would be thrilled with anything the city could do,” he said.

The city council voted to table the decision.