The OCR has reported that Anaheim has paid for its Rose parade float with Convention Center funds meant to promote tourism to the tune of $150,000*. Is this really responsible stewardship when your city is facing a budget loss of millions?
As a former candidate, I must say that it’s pretty irresponsible for such a large amount of money to be dedicated to a float that will be used for a day. What makes me go so far as to say it’s irresponsible? Well the fact that Anaheim faces a budget cut to the tune of $15,000,000(and that’s at the low end of the estimates that come from both myself and Councilman Harry Sidhu), and proposals for eliminating certain city programs and services are already circulating.
There’s no reason why the private sector couldn’t be tapped, especially when considering a city with Anaheim’s resources (*cough, Disney, Angels, and Ducks come to mind).
On another note, I’m extremely proud of Anaheim High School’s NHS who provided about 60 volunteers to help put the float together. I’m an ’06 grad and my dad is a ’79 grad, so great job Colonists!
*(OJ Blogger Larry Gilbert stated in a blog today that OJ has been reporting this for 4 months, but I never read any such blogs and I not going to be bothered to look for them now)
I’m all for the pride of Anaheim but $150,000 is wayyyy to much money to spend on a float. There are much better ways to get the money. They could of done fund raisers to specifically raise money to pay for the float. Or maybe combine with other cities of Orange County to cut down on the expense. Steve mentioned having it funded by other larger companies within Anaheim also would of been an awesome way for them to spend their money. Whats $150,000 like a hour of profit for Disneyland?