Canyons School District spent $2,484.31 on Wednesday's kick-off party, plus $293 on events last Saturday, according to district officials.

But Canyons supporters say it's worth it.

"Given the magnitude of what we are doing, and that this is a once-in-100-year event, spending a couple thousand dollars for a celebration to start a new district is a reasonable amount to spend," said Tracy Cowdell, Canyons board president.

"We tried to be frugal in the way we planned the event," Cowdell said, adding that many items were donated. "We haven't had to pay for very much."

The money for the celebration came from the district's fund balance. The "transition funds" are earmarked for any issues pertaining to setting up a district, including hiring staff and outfitting a new district office, according to Keith Bradford, Canyons' chief financial officer.

Canyons and the west-side Jordan district each received $14.5 million in transition funds.

Wednesday's activities included a sunrise breakfast at Alta Lodge, sign and logo ceremony, bus parade and birthday party.

"We feel we have been very frugal and appropriate," said Canyons district spokeswoman Jennifer Toomer-Cook. She added the district has built many new business partnerships that are willing to give discounts and donations.

The seven buses used in the celebration run on natural gas. They drove 21 miles. The drivers are on staff.

Alta Lodge, which is within the district, waived fees. The district shelled out $1,000 for breakfast and service. District nutrition services workers made the cake on site. The miniature golf set-ups were brought in. Businesses donated drinks and balloons, according to Toomer-Cook.

Activities at the Real Salt Lake soccer game last Saturday were free of charge. A total of 200 tickets for students performing were free, courtesy of Sandy's free allotment. Ice cream was donated. Treats and water were purchased for Canyons students at the Carnival stage, and for drill teams and the Canyons Idol winner, Toomer-Cook said.

Canyons School District kick-off party

$16.31 buses

$1,000 Alta Lodge

$353 cake

$450 mini golf

$665 sound system

REAL soccer activities:

$150 logo water bottles

$143 treats

TOTAL: $2,777.31

E-mail: astewart@desnews.com