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Le Mars officials discuss parade route changes, volunteer coverage for Ice Cream Days
Summary
City officials discussed reconfiguring parade routes to reduce crowding and the need for more volunteers to staff intersections during events, with the mayor retaining final approval of permits.
City officials and event organizers in Le Mars discussed potential changes to parade routes and the staffing of parade intersections, saying adjustments may be needed to reduce crowding at popular events such as Ice Cream Days.
Officials said the parade route was compressed in previous years to reduce the number of intersections requiring traffic control, but residents and council members reported persistent crowding in some neighborhoods and requested reconsideration of routes for certain events. A council member said the route’s earlier alignment that passed in front of the mayor’s house allowed some neighborhoods to attend without going downtown, and that some residents want that restored.
The discussion focused on two practical issues: who must apply for a parade permit and who staffs intersections. City staff noted that the permit is granted or denied by the mayor. Organizers applying for a permit would be responsible for identifying volunteers for intersection control if the route is extended. "We would look at it. Obviously, if we extend it, we're gonna need more help," a council member said.
Speakers said volunteers — not necessarily sworn officers — can staff many intersections, though some traffic-control roles may require coordinated support from city departments. The city’s police chief was cited as a participant in planning; council members said the chief and a council representative would discuss route details and volunteer needs before decisions are made.
Organizers reported a high volunteer turnout for past events. One organizer was thanked for providing about 70 volunteers. A council member said the executive committee that coordinates Ice Cream Days will review route options and staffing plans and notify the mayor as the permitting authority.
No formal motion or vote was recorded in the transcript excerpt; council members said the matter will return to the executive committee and to the chief for follow-up.
