Sykesville is planning for Christmas with a $7,500 expenditure for outdoor lights and decorations.

The Town Council voted unanimously Monday to spend the money to decorate Main Street for the holiday season.

"Lights are key" to getting visitors downtown, said Mayor Jonathan S. Herman, who suggested stringing them along the Patapsco River bridge at the south entrance to town.

"We should see an exciting Main Street this season," said Herman.

The display will include 16 lighted wreaths on utility poles, and garlands and banners stretching across Main Street.

"I am usually the one yelling about spending, but this is money well-spent," said Councilman Michael Burgoyne. "This is the kind of thing that will attract people downtown."

Sykesville Business Association, which has donated $300 to the lighting project, is sponsoring a window-decorating contest among its members.

"We want to give people a reason for coming into town," said Ron Jackson, association president.

Fire

Sykesville: Firefighters responded at 11 p.m. Monday to a fire call in the 700 block of Liberty Road. Units were out 17 minutes.

Pub Date: 10/14/98