Jefferson festival organizers get town approval to use parking lot for bonfire, board asks Athletic Association to clear overgrowth

The Town of Jefferson Select Board on Sept. 15 approved use of the town-owned parking lot across from the old library for the Jefferson Festival’s Christmas bonfire and asked festival organizers to coordinate with nearby tenants so the lot will be available the day of the event.

Kate Savage, representing the Jefferson Festival Committee and the Jefferson Athletic Association, told the board the bonfire was requested because “with the new landscaping there isn't enough room down there” at the usual busy corner. Savage also asked permission for volunteers to trim greenery at the lot so that Hicks Field and its playground equipment would be visible to residents.

The board said the lot is town property and agreed the Athletic Association may proceed with visibility work, advising organizers to contact Forrest Hicks about having Hick’s logging perform the trimming. The board did not set a formal town crew assignment or funding commitment for the work.

Separately, Emma Wotton of the Festival Committee asked to use the Meeting Room on the day of the Christmas Festival to display decorated trees for a silent-auction raffle. The Select Board declined use of the Meeting Room but offered alternatives: the overflow room with the kitchen used as a serving area, or placement of trees around the hall if approved by Chief Chris Milligan.

No formal motion or vote was recorded on the festival requests; the record shows the board provided permission and logistical guidance and directed organizers to coordinate with affected parties.