May create nonprofit to pay for fireworks
By Davy James, Staff Writer
The difficult fiscal situation has forced the township to turn to private donors and sponsors to sponsor popular events such as the Independence Day fireworks celebration.
The alternative would be to cancel the fireworks and the Industry and Commerce luncheon, which were cut from the township budget as part of an attempt to save money.
Both programs are popular with residents and businesses, however, so the township is soliciting donors and local businesses to fund the programs.
”We didn’t feel comfortable having these events as part of the 2010 budget,” said Councilman Joseph Camarota. “So what we want to do is establish an entity that will allow us to accept money from donors and sponsors that will allow us to turn around and support these types of events. During the course of the year there are certain events that are important to the vitality of South Brunswick and funding these through donations is how we can continue to hold these events.”
The township is in the process putting together its municipal budget for the upcoming year, while facing difficulties from a declining ratable base and a cut in state aid. With the Independence Day fireworks costing between $30,000 and $35,000, the township must rely on private sponsorships to continue the popular event.
”I think the fireworks are something that brings the community together in a social environment,” Mr. Camarota said. “It’s a reason to celebrate and for residents to feel good about themselves, their community and their country.”
The current plan for Independence Day is for the fireworks to be held on July 3 between the two Crossroads middle schools, which share property. Mr. Camarota said the township is also looking to hold a parade that will run from Wetherhill Road down Georges Road and ending at Crossroads North Middle School on Georges.
Mr. Camarota said the township will use private funding to continue the annual Industry and Commerce luncheon, which costs about $2,000 to run. He said the event is crucial to South Brunswick because it brings together business owners from throughout the township.
”We felt it’s critical to the businesses of South Brunswick and it’s important to talk to the people and make sure we’re addressing their needs,” he said. “It’s important when you’re trying to preserve ratables and to create new ratables, which has always been a function of this township.”
Letters are being sent to business owners seeking their support of the Independence Day celebration in hopes of filling the funding gap. Mr. Camarota said preserving the programs are important because they allow South Brunswick to maintain its identity and build a sense of community.
”As much as our township has grown we still look at it as a small-town community,” he said. “It’s a very diverse community and programs like the July 4 fireworks promote that common thread we all have while celebrating the birth of our country in an enjoyable atmosphere.”