Council approves $15,000 trial for July 4 parade safety measures

The Enumclaw City Council approved an appropriation of up to $15,000 to pay for temporary parade safety measures for the July 4 parade on a trial basis, after extended discussion about logistics, costs, and impacts on downtown businesses.

Council member Martineau presented the request, saying the proposal would cover temporary barricade rentals and additional staffing: "The request is for funding of safety of $15,000 per parade, which includes $8,000 to go towards temporary barriers," Martineau said. The original motion sought funding for two parades (a combined $30,000), but council agreed to amend the motion to fund one parade on a trial basis.

Staff described logistical challenges including deployment time, storage and whether to rent or purchase barriers. "We haven't had the time to really go through a logistical planning meeting but if approved we will do that," a staff member warned, noting crews, staging and potential impacts to downtown parking and businesses.

Council discussed options such as limiting barricades to key intersections, supplementing with additional security staff, using lighter plastic barricades for easier handling, and coordinating deployment timing to avoid business disruptions. The amended motion — up to $15,000 for the July 4 parade for traffic and safety improvements as determined by administration, police and the Chamber — passed on a recorded council vote of 5 to 1.

Council asked administration to work with the Chamber, public works and police on logistics, cost details and communication with businesses ahead of the event and to report back on the trial's outcomes.

The appropriation is for the July 4 event as a trial; council will review effectiveness and cost needs for future parades such as the December holiday event.