Glen Arbor’s popular July 4th Parade is a go this year, despite a lack of the usual police presence.
The parade was a major topic of discussion at the Glen Arbor Township Board Tuesday evening.
The parade is a beloved annual event that became the event we all know and love due to Stan Brubaker. Brubaker and/ or members of his family have always had a hand in organizing the parade until this year.
Additionally, earlier this year the Leelanau County Sheriff Department stated that they would not be able to supply the number of officers needed for the Leelanau County Road Commission (LCRC) to sign off on road use for the parade.
Since that statement, the LCRC has come to an agreement with the township that will allow the parade to take place this year as planned. The Road Commission will provide barricades to be placed on Bay Lane and near Westman Road to redirect traffic.
In addition to the barricades, the LCRC would like the chamber to enlist volunteers to be at each barricade to more clearly direct people since there will be a lack of official detour signs.
Members of the Glen Lake Chamber of Commerce (GLCC) were in attendance including the Chamber President, Darci Ricker.
“We’re just looking to partner and collaborate — make sure that we represent the business interests and get the volunteers that are up and down the main street that can help sweep and keep people safe,” Ricker explained.
She went on to say that many new business owners are stepping forward and are eager to be involved.
The township board laid out all of what is involved in putting on the parade to the GLCC members in attendance. They discussed the insurance package needed, applying for permits, communications with the fire department, and best ways to make sure the parade flows in a safe and steady manner.
Township Clerk Pam Laureto summed it up saying, “just to make it clear, I think that we are in agreement that the township is still leading this, and (the chamber of commerce) is going to follow with us, help get volunteers, and get people learning about what is going on.”
Those interested in volunteering at the parade can reach out to Darci Ricker at ricker. [email protected] or Pam Laureto at glenarbor@glenarbortownship. com.
In other business, the township board agreed to donate a new shed to the Leelanau School and gave an update on new parking signs to be placed at the north end of Lake Street. The town hall parking lot project has been delayed recently due to weather. However, council expects that the final touches on the new pavement will be finished and ready to be used in time for the first farmers market of the season on June 10.
Finally, Laureto brought up that congratulations are in order for Fire Chief Bryan Ferguson. Ferguson has been elected as a trustee to the board of the Northern Michigan Fire Chiefs Association.
