After a back-and-forth that saw the “Downtown Countdown” event be canceled, then the decision reversed a week later, Laurel Main Street has officially canceled the annual event scheduled for New Year’s Eve Tuesday afternoon.
In a press release, Laurel Main Street Board of Directors stated, “It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that Laurel Main Street (LMS) announces the cancellation of this year’s Downtown Countdown, due to take place on December 31, 2020.”
During a meeting held in October, the Special Events Committee voted 4-1 to cancel the event because of COVID-19, however, it was met with resistance from Laure Main Street officials, the City Council, and the public.
Laurel Main Street Executive Director Judi Holifield who was set to retire at the end of the year believed that the decision to cancel was premature. She was joined by Councilman Tony Wheat and Council President Tony Thaxton who both heavily opposed the early cancelation.
After a week, the committee met again and reversed the decision, citing safeguards that could be put in place.
However, this week the decision was changed yet again as Laurel main Street cited “growing concerns” about COVID-19.
“This is not a decision we have taken lightly but given the growing concerns around COVID-19,” stated the press release. “The Laurel Main Street Board of Directors felt it was the right decision. Downtown Countdown was an incredibly successful event in its inaugural year, and one we looked forward to continuing, but we must prioritize the health and safety of our partners, volunteers, and community.”
“We are devastated to share this news and had held out hope that our county and city would be in a much healthier situation, but that is not the case,” LMS President, Truitt Taylor, stated. “After reviewing the Governor’s mandates, the rise of COVID-19 cases in our area, and in close consultation with our city leaders, we believe that cancellation is the appropriate call.”
Laurel Main Street has not canceled any events for 2021 and reassured in the press release that they hope to continue to see downtown Laurel grow.
“We remain committed to downtown Laurel and our mission of economic revitalization. We appreciate the support of our city leaders, Main Street Partners, Members, and event sponsors, and we look forward to resuming in-person events in 2021.”