ASHLAND – In a unanimous vote Tuesday, Ashland City Council passed a resolution to grant clearance for low altitude flight over the city for Santa Claus and his reindeer.
Council member Dan Lawson wrote and introduced the seasonal legislation, which was passed as an emergency measure. Because the last-minute measure was not on the council’s agenda, he read it aloud in its entirety.Â
The clearance is authorized for one night only, between sunset Dec. 24 and sunrise Dec. 25., according to the resolution.Â
However, if weather conditions inhibit visibility, the city will permit one additional reindeer, provided said reindeer possess a “particularly shiny nose.”
In discussing the resolution, council president Steve Workman noted the legislation made no mention of load limits.Â
“That is correct,” Lawson said. “It would be very difficult to predict very precise load limits.”
After hearing that explanation, Workman agreed with Lawson and voiced his support for the resolution.Â
“In considering this resolution, council may want to anticipate serious public outcry, and perhaps negative headlines, from children of all ages should we not unanimously pass this resolution,” Workman said. “Therefore, I, as president of council, would recommend affirming it.”
Following the council’s vote, Mayor Matt Miller said he believes the city’s new Christmas tree at Corner Park should help Santa in his travels. Â
“Because we have that 40-foot majestic pine artificial Christmas tree sitting down there, even if it’s a foggy, snowy night, Santa should be able to spot the city of Ashland from a significant distance,” Miller said.Â
