A long debate by the Common Council ended in a split decision on Rhinelander's 4th of July parade and fireworks. The parade has been canceled because of a fear of coronavirus spread, but the fireworks display will go on. The final vote to cancel the parade but keep the fireworks was 5-3.
Alder Gerald Anderson made the motion...
"It seems to me that there's no way to keep people at safe distances or to maintain other kinds of safety..."
Anderson said the fireworks were different because the public could spread out and keep better distance at the large Hodag Park, while the parade finds people jammed together along Brown Street.
Police Chief Lloyd Gauthier said it would require bringing as many officers as possible into work as the parade presents unique safety problems.
Alders Tom Barnett and Carrie Mikalauski both felt the impact on the economy of canceling was difficult to accept, though Barrnett said he was torn. Mikalauski said she talked to some who wanted to keep the parade to support struggling businesses...
"People have the freedom of choice to go if they're not feeling safe they can choose not to go..."
Mayor Chris Frederickson said he had received many calls from people concerned about the parade and the virus. Several area communities have canceled July 4th activities. More information on when the fireworks will be held will come out at upcoming meetings.
