Mayor Robert Chiszar and several trustees affirmed their support this week for the Wolf Road route selected for Sunday’s 4th of July parade sponsored by the Mokena Chamber of Commerce.
Switching the parade route to Wolf Road from the traditional Front Street location was suggested by Craig McCutcheon, chamber president, at a Village Board meeting earlier this year. The parade committee saw the wider Wolf Road as a safer location, especially for children.
But the switch touched off protests among traditionalists, who wanted the parade to continue its route through downtown on Front Street.
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Trustees Joe Werner and Ed Jancauskas said they support the Wolf Road parade route, and Trustee Mike Everett noted that the final decision to change the route was made by the Village Board, not McCutcheon and the chamber.
People who disapprove of the change have the right to boycott the parade if they wish, but the disruption rumored to be planned by some opponents is unacceptable, Trustee John Mazzorana said.
Village officials will participate in the parade, Chiszar said, urging residents to “enjoy the holiday and enjoy the parade for what it was meant to be–a celebration of our independence.”