Hoboken Public Safety Director Bill Begin drafted a letter last week laying out the city’s proposed changes for the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, beginning next year. The parade has caused controversy due to the rowdiness that has prevailed in town on parade day over the last few years, when people from out of town have come in that Saturday to attend parties.
The city is making six days available for the parade, all after the actual holiday: Monday, March 22 or 29; Tuesday, March 23 or 30; or Wednesday, March 24 or 31. Also, the parade will be held at 5 p.m., Bergin said.
Bergin said the post-holiday dates allow for more sunlight for the afternoon parade due to the end of daylight savings time.
He is also recommending that a city ordinance setting certain restrictions on house parties be enacted this year by the City Council, and that the city consider raising fines from $1,000 to possibly $2,000.
Bergin has submitted his letter and an information packet to the City Council, who will meet Wednesday, April 4 at 7 p.m. at City Hall.
Bergin will work with the council’s Quality of Life Committee, as well as the organizers of the St. Pat’s Parade, to finalize the date and time. Any ordinances would have to be approved by a vote of the council.
Hoboken proposes changes to St. Pat’s Parade for next year
