'First Night' tentatively OKd

A group that wants to stage an alcohol-free, community-wide New Year's Eve celebration in the city got the preliminary go-ahead from the McCook City Council Monday night, but was asked to come back to the council in two weeks with more definite plans for dealing with security and curfew issues.

The McCook Youth League is coordinating a "First Night" event like those celebrated in other cities and will be the first of its kind in the state when presented in McCook. (More information is available at www.firstnightintl.org)

The event focuses on a variety of programs throughout the evening that are family-friendly and alcohol-free. Events planned for McCook's celebration include a promenade up Norris Avenue where a ball will be dropped at the Keystone, a la Times Square, a street dance on West C between West First and West Second and other activities.

Although generally in favor of it, the council expressed concern over security and curfew issues, but indicated it was willing to work with the group so the event could move forward.

Curfew violations was a concern, as New Year's Eve falls on a Thursday and curfew on weekday nights for those under 16 without a parent is 10:30 p.m. And, the council contended that having officers present with the power of arrest will help regulate the crowd in case a few get out of hand.

"We're in support of it, we just don't want it to be the last 'First Night out,'" said Councilman Jerry Calvin, who advised the group to ask for volunteers from the Red Willow County Sheriff's office, the Nebraska State Patrol or the city police department, and if needed, request city staff to assign police officers for the event.

City Attorney Nate Schneider also suggested that the group contact other organizations who held a "First Night" event to see what they did about security.

The idea to lift the curfew temporarily for one night was tossed out by Councilman Aaron Kircher. Kircher mentioned how the council waived city ordinances when goats were used inside city limits to eliminate vegetation for another group's project and City Manager Kurt Fritsch concurred that the council had that flexibility.

Shane Hilker of the McCook Youth League said he has been in contact with the county about using the Sheriff's Posse but Councilman Calvin noted that a posse did not have the authority to arrest. In case something happens, he would feel more comfortable with law enforcement who had that authority.

Councilman Mike Gonzales agreed. "You plan for the worst and hope for the best," he said. Gonzales added that though the event as a whole was a positive thing for the city, that like it or not, under age drinking could take place or unintentional damage could occur.

Hilker, who addressed the council along with other members of the McCook Youth League, agreed to look at resolving those issues.

Sue Shaner, business coach at the McCook Economic Development and sponsor of the McCook Youth League, said the budget includes funds for security.