White Oak approves trick or treating

By JEFF STITT

jstitt@yourmvi.com

Despite one councilman expressing his disapproval, White Oak council on Monday gave trick or treating the green light.

After reminding his fellow council members that the world is in the midst of a pandemic, Councilman George Dillinger said he feared the borough might be opening itself up to a liability lawsuit if a child or family contracts COVID-19 and claims they were exposed to the virus while trick or treating in White Oak. 

Solicitor Patricia McGrail said she believes it would be hard for anyone filing a suit of that nature against the borough to prove their case.

Dillinger additionally said he can’t see how the borough can ensure that those participating will practice social distancing and other coronavirus mitigation tactics while going door to door asking for candy.

Councilmen Chuck Davis and George Pambacas and Councilwoman Julie Opferman each said they would rather leave it up to White Oak residents and families to decide if they want to hand out candy and other goodies or let their children go trick or treating.

Trick or treat will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Oct. 31. White Oak police and other first responders will patrol and ensure safety during the festivities, as they traditionally do.

Davis said the annual Halloween parade has been canceled, and Borough Manager John Palyo said the Truck or Treat event is also called off. It allows borough children to look at and explore large vehicles such as fire trucks, construction vehicles, garbage trucks and ambulances while wearing their Halloween costumes and collecting candy from participating agencies and businesses.

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