After the public response about the cancellation of the 4th of July Parade (and eventual reversal of that decision), you would think Whitemarsh Township would want to be extra clear when the parade is mentioned on agendas.

The outrage surrounding the cancellation of the parade was driven by the lack of an opportunity for public input on the future of the parade and an agenda that lacked transparency. That agenda read “4th of July Parade Update.” While it was included under the section reserved for motions (meaning a vote was likely to take place), it wasn’t written in a way that would notify the public that a vote could lead to the cancellation of the parade.

That is why we are surprised to see “Review of the enhanced security update for the 4th of July Parade,” under the motions section of the agenda for June 12th (view full agenda).

All the other items under this section start with “Consider” and provide details on what will be voted on. The agenda also comes with supporting documents for each item under the motions section, except for the parade.

Are the supervisors just going to get an update on the security plan for the parade? If so, then it should be listed under public discussion items, or more likely, a presentation section.

Or, will the supervisors vote to approve the cost associated with the updated security plan? If so, why are there no supporting documents outlining the cost? Why is the specific agenda item worded differently than other items under motions? If there is going to be a vote, the public is once again not being told to expect a vote involving the parade. Some people might want to offer public comment in support of the expenditure. Others might think it is too costly.

Essentially, this is the same transparency-related issue that the township supervisors promised to correct after the public backlash following the cancellation of the parade. It hasn’t been corrected.

Let us know what you think in the comments.