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Council approves Semana Hispana rides permit for Common after heated debate over park damage
Summary
After debate about park damage and long-running concerns about rides on the Common, the Lawrence City Council approved a permit for Semana Hispana and related rides in the Common for mid-June 2025 with DPW involvement and site protections.
The Lawrence City Council voted May 20 to approve permits allowing rides and associated setup in the City Common for the Semana Hispana / Fiesta event scheduled for June. The vote followed extensive public comment and a lengthy council debate about the site’s suitability and past damage from carnival equipment.
At public comment, residents said the rides are a long-standing family tradition. Philbert Ferreira, who identified himself as a local business owner and father, told the council he wanted his daughter to “experience those same moments,” and urged the city to restore rides with a safety-focused approach: “Let’s…
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