Press release from the City of Great Bend...
The City of Great Bend City Administrator Kendal Francis, met with staff and after much consideration, the decision has been made to discontinue the annual Zoo Boo event. This is a difficult decision but not a COVID-19 based one.
Many factors played into this decision. The City spends over $6,000 each year in the purchase of candy and other necessities. Additionally, there are significant man-hours and overtime that are required for preparation and cleanup of the event. A final factor in the decision, though not financial it is equally as important, was that the crowds create undo stress for many of our larger animals which is detrimental to their health. Sponsorships of the event went directly towards advertising and did not help defray the direct costs.
The City is discussing opportunities to better leverage funds and reduce costs through participation in and enhancement of other existing family-friendly events.
In doing so, Kendal Francis said, “We are confident that we can fill the void left by Zoo Boo. A partnership with the very popular downtown Kiwanis Halloween parade is a viable option.”
That event happens every year the Saturday before Halloween and it takes people directly in front of the businesses which creates exposure and given the current challenging financial times, we want to enhance the economy for our existing businesses.
City Council member & Kiwanis member Barry Bowers said, “Kiwanis is excited about the opportunity to grow our downtown Halloween parade. It’s good for the businesses, a safe option for the kids and takes the pressure off the city and zoo.”
The city would like to thank Eagle Radio, KSN and many others for their partnership in Zoo Boo.