|
|
Founders Day has been held on the Franklin County Courthouse Square for several years.
City officials have discussed moving the event back to the city park for several years. Founders Day was held at both locations for several years. It was located at the city park in the 1990s but was moved to the square after flooding in 2000.
"The main reason we want to move it is to make it more family centered," Arand said. "We don't think that is being done now - we want to make it a family atmosphere again."
Changes were made to the event two years ago in an effort to make it more family friendly and not center around the beer garden, which opened later and closed earlier than in past years.
Some other reasons mentioned to move it back to the park include more room at the park and pavilions for shelter if it rains.
Arand told the city's park, building, development and public service committee that if the event is moved to the park there could be more activities directed to different age groups.
He said plans now call for a large band geared toward an older crowd is scheduled to play at the park large pavilion, while a rock 'n' roll band will play at the fairgrounds.
"We could separate the two venues," Arand said. "A lot of the older crowd would not come out for rock 'n' roll."
He noted that crafts would be held in the parking lot next to the large pavilion, and because there is more space and amenities at the park, more events could be held, such as basketball and volleyball tournaments, a fishing derby, washers and horseshoes matches.
"There are a lot of other activities that we could do," he said.
Alderman Bob Shmuke asked if those initial plans utilize too large of an area for residents and food vendors who set up booths during Founders Day.
"Is that spreading people too thin?" he asked. Arand said that details still need to be ironed out, but that he wants the committee's blessing before moving forward with plans.
"I know we can make it work and make it successful," he said. "I think people will come out."
Alderman Paul Arand suggested that park officials meet with community organizations to get an idea if they would support the move.
"I think you need to talk with the organizations and get input from them," he said. "I think they put a lot of time into it (Founders Day)."
Kevin Arand said the move would decrease set up time and reduce overtime costs for his department. He noted that it could save overtime pay for the police department as well.
However, Chief Norman Brune said his cost could increase because, if there are two bands and two beer gardens, they both would have to be patrolled. Brune added that the areas of the park between the two band locations also must be patrolled and there is not much lighting at the park.
There also may be photographs and information about Union's past on display at the park.
Kevin Arand asked that anyone with photos of Union history contact the parks department at 636-583-8471
