Clear Lake Mirror Reporter

(Above) There will be no parade, carnival, Bingo, bands or fireworks during the July 4th holiday in Clear Lake this year. - Reporter file photo by Chris Barragy.

Governor’s order prohibiting crowds, public safety concerns drive decision

Fireworks at new location still a possibility

by Marianne Gasaway

For the first time in its 149-year history, Clear Lake will not hold a Fourth of July celebration.

On the heels of the cancellation of July 4th activities, organizers of the Bicycle, Blues & BBQ weekend announced they have also called off their 2020 event, scheduled for July 10-12.

“We just do not see a path that will allow more than 500 people to be gathered without social distancing and providing the special accommodation that may be required to do so,” explained Tim Putnam and Matt Curtis.   “We will all regroup and work to have a great festival for July 9-11, 2021.”

by Marianne Gasaway

A new lighted, floating dock was installed at the end of Main Avenue last week, creating an improved entrance to the city from the water.

The dock, manufactured by Pier Genius, of Woden, Iowa was purchased by the city at a  cost of $94,200, will replace a fixed post and plank dock system.

Clear Lake Parks & Recreation Director Randy Miller and City Administrator Scott Flory have announced that the City of Clear Lake’s Aquatic Center will not open for 2020. The decision follows Governor Kim Reynold’s announcement from earlier in the week in which she allowed pools to open, but for lap swimming and swimming lessons only.

“The decision was incredibly difficult and one I agonized over greatly, but the Governor’s recent re-openings announcement does not enable the City to “fully” open the Aquatic Center,” stated Miller.