Swampscott board debates bringing carnival to town

SWAMPSCOTT – A carnival could be coming to town sometime this summer.The Selectmen have debated whether to hold a carnival in town at their last two meetings. While they agree it is a good idea in theory, no consensus has been reached.One of the major sticking points was where to hold a carnival.Town Administrator Andrew Maylor said Fiesta Shows looked at several locations in town and Phillips Park was the most appropriate location.Maylor said the company had July 21 through July 24 and some dates in September available.He added if the carnival was held in Phillips Park, he would not recommend holding it in September because of potential conflicts with football.Maylor said Fiesta Shows has its own insurance, would set up at no cost to the town and provide the town with a portion of proceeds.”From our perspective there is very little risk,” he said.Selectman Richard Malagrifa enthusiastically endor-sed the idea of having a carnival in town.”It would bring life into Swampscott,” he said. “It would be a great idea.”Selectman David Van Dam said he thinks it would be a nice community event and Selectman Robert Mazow expressed support for a carnival.Selectman Matthew Strauss said he doesn’t believe a carnival should be held in Phillips Park. He cited concerns about traffic congestion and possible damage to the field.Chairman Jill Sullivan expressed concern about noise, which could disturb the neighbors, and suggested looking for an alternate location.Maylor said he would speak to merchants in the Vinnin Square area to see if it would be possible to use an area there.