If you do not collect fees or dues, how do you sustain MCN?

A 2 year cycle has evolved, revolving around the “even years” when there is a Town Council election. At that time, we prepare and offer a Candidates’ Night in October so that all citizens can meet the candidates running for those seats. Because of the expenses involved in holding this event, and the on-going expenses for a website and an email marketing company, we have a short fund-raising campaign in the fall.