Downtown merchants praise cookie crawl; parade and holiday events credited with bringing community together

Roberta Kicking, speaking for the Historic Downtown Clinton Merchants Association, told the council the cookie crawl and market last Saturday were successful and that merchants appreciated city support, specifically thanking staff members Jason Brown and Taylor Carlson. She said turnout exceeded expectations despite downtown construction and noted younger customers are coming to Market Street.

Catherine (no last name given) delivered a report praising the Christmas parade, thanking city staff and volunteers and highlighting community organizations such as Rotary for supporting children and families. Council members responded with appreciation and discussion of parade logistics and safety.

The council acknowledged the contributions of merchants and volunteers and noted that preparations are under way for continued downtown activity as construction finishes next year.