No grinches here: Mayor backs Christmas spend

Ashburton’s mayor Neil Brown prioritizes community engagement over cost-cutting measures, allocating $30,000 for the Light up the Night Christmas event despite government pressure to reduce spending. The event, set for November 30, includes entertainment and the lighting of a giant Christmas tree in Baring Square East. Additionally, the NBS Ashburton Santa Parade, organized independently with council support, will take place on December 7 in the Ashburton Domain, showcasing a variety of themed entries and fostering community spirit.

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