St. Cloud council orders extra staff for ‘Proud in the Cloud’ after public dispute over grant and safety

St. Cloud — The City Council voted 4-1 to add 10 additional Parks & Recreation staff to the Proud in the Cloud festival after weeks of public comment and a staff briefing that revealed confusion over permits, fees and site logistics.

Council members and city staff said their priority was safety and protection of the city-owned ranch property where the event will be held. Mayor Robertson moved to add the staff and Deputy Mayor Gilbert seconded; the roll call recorded Council member Irvin, Deputy Mayor Gilbert, Council member Paul and Mayor Robertson voting aye, Council member Fletcher voting no.

The vote followed extensive public comment both for and against the festival. Resident Don Gray told the council, “I object to my taxpayer dollars going to support this pride event,” while State Representative and Kissimmee Mayor Jose Alvarez urged the council to remain inclusive: “This is what guided Saint Cloud to go in the direction that is going right now in a positive direction.” Vendor and participant Egan Carter said the festival “was very positive” last year and helped the city.

City parks…