Fireworks and street dance are still a go

Cornell City Council

Questions have swirled around for the last couple months, on when large-scale events can take place, ever since the state went on lockdown because of concerns over COVID- 19. Even though the Safer at Home order from the governor was overturned, health departments still caution limited contact and social distancing.

With the Cornell Fair, All-Classes Community Reunion and Cornell Floatilla canceled, it was only natural to wonder if the annual street dance and fireworks display July 3, would take place. That’s what the Cornell City Council wanted to know during a regular meeting May 21.

“I think, even if we don’t have the street dance, we should have fireworks,” said Ashley Carothers, council members.

Carothers said, however, if numbers of positive COVID- 19 cases continue to rise and local happenings are canceled around Cornell, the council should revisit the idea of holding the July 3 street dance. She said there is plenty of room down at the Mill Yard Park area, where the fireworks are shot off every year.

“I think we need to plan on it happening, unless something really bad happens in the next couple weeks,” said council president Steve Turany.

Dave DeJongh, city administrator, says the company who sets off the fireworks is still willing to come if the display takes place, but cautioned that the local health department could set down “large gathering” guidelines.

Council member Aimee Korger said the council needs to show support for moving forward with the celebration. Floyd Hickethier, council member, agreed, and said if cases don’t rise, the festivities should be held.

“Everybody’s down right now,” said Hickethier. “The fireworks would perk everybody up.”

Members agreed the street dance should also be planned, which council member Bill Kvapil says needs more bands to play at, after one had to cancel because of family matters. Kvapil says he is hoping to get two bands for sure, but that they may have to use a DJ if two can’t be scheduled.

The council will monitor COVID-19 cases as the fireworks and street dance events near.

“As for right now, it’s a go, unless something unforeseen happens,” said mayor Mark Larson.

During the meeting, members also agreed on a contract with Prochnow Assessing, for $7,000 annually, for 2021-23. The city just came off a re-evaluation, so the cost of a contract for the next three years went down.

“Now, we’re back to maintenance,” said DeJongh.

DeJongh also reported that the city received a $10,227.95 grant from the DNR, to help with off-setting fees to Waste Management for the city’s recycling program As a reminder to the public, residents are asked not to blow or sweep grass clippings into the road, as it makes it unsafe for motorcycles to drive on, as well as clogging the city’s sewer system.

“Please watch where you’re putting your grass,” said Carothers. “Don’t put it on the road.”