Wellington North staff have expressed concerns about a new competition that could be included in the 2018 Mount Forest Fireworks Festival.
Council considered a motion to support a car burnout event on April 23.
Mayor Andy Lennox said the recreation committee discussed the possibility of damage to Princess Street from the event.
Councillor Sherry Burke, who is involved with the festival committee, said she was unsure about the details.
“It looks like they’re going to alter starting positions and … the pavement would be wet down after each participant,” she said.
CAO Mike Givens said council needs to be “cautious” about proceeding.
“Our roads superintendent has some concerns about potential damage to Princess Street, which I agree with,” he said.
“To be honest I’m not sure what the allure is, but I think council should be cautious about possible damage to our street.”
Burke said while the festival committee has fixed damages in the past, the roads superintendent should be involved in conversations with the committee.
“I don’t think he’s going to be convinced that watering down the road is a preventative measure,” said Givens.
Burke agreed, adding all parties should be brought together to look for solutions.
“If we’re not comfortable making the decision and we need more direction from staff, we need to hear the concerns from the staff, then I think we need to do that,” said Burke.
Lennox said he was “happy” to support the event, if the committee would “take on that risk.”
Council approved a motion to grant approval, adding that if damage should occur to municipal roads or pavement, the festival committee would be responsible for the cost of repairs.
The Mount Forest Fireworks Festival is set for July 20 to 22.
