The Mission Regional Chamber of Commerce has made the “unfortunate decision” to cancel this year’s Candlelight Parade to ensure the safety and security of the volunteers and spectators, said Chamber President Manny Deol in a press release sent to the Record.
He goes on to say the recommendation to cancel came from discussions with the Candlelight Parade Committee, which consists of the City of Mission, Mission Fire and Rescue, Mission RCMP, Traffic Management Patrol, the Downtown Business Association, Mission Optimist Club and the Crime Prevention Office.
Officials feel that the predicted winter weather forecast raises a number of safety issues as the sidewalks and parking areas on the parade route may not be cleared in time.
The large numbers of people in one place with such conditions was not a good idea.
The Chamber of Commerce Board and staff are extremely disappointed after months of work and planning that went into this parade.