JACKSONVILLE, Fla.-- The sights and sounds of Jacksonville's lighted boat parade have been afloat for 27 years.
It has brought out thousands of spectators...and even better...boosted the economy.
"It's a great holiday event. It brings money to downtown to the tune of about $250,000," Lisa Almeida said.
Last year, the event was canceled altogether, and had to be revived through grassroots efforts and a public-private partnership with the city of Jacksonville.
Some boating groups claim Mayor Alvin Brown pledged his long-term support for the parade last year...but so far has left them in limbo this time around.
"What has been the response from the city? What has been the correspondence?" Action News asked.
"We have basically had a couple of meetings. We have not yet been able to get the mayor's office to commit, so that's kind of where we are. We're kind of in a stalling place because we can't move forward unless we have those logistics and kind," Almeida continued.
Almeida, of Freedom Boat Club, says they have to have the support of the Coast Guard, the Sheriff's Office, and Office of Special Events to proceed.
So we reached out to the mayor's office... they tell us they committed to the boat parade back in July and all plans are a-go.
The River City Brewing Company...which has a front-row seat to the event each year...says it's glad to hear that.
"Every year, it follows Thanksgiving...the Saturday right after that weekend. We see all these big, beautiful boats go right by our way," employee Karen Rodriguez said with a smile.
A meeting to discuss parade logistics is planned for Friday.
