Township Mum on Trick-or-Treating, Parents Frustrated

With the severe devastation from Sandy all around us, snack-sized Snickers bars might seem trivial, but not to a kid.

Halloween -- second to Christmas on the list of best holidays -- is today. But the main event, trick-or-treating, seems up in the air in Newtown.

With more than 5,000 homes in Newtown without power, many parents are questioning the safety of sending their children out under such conditions. Plus, downed trees and branches from Hurricane Sandy will further impede safety.

However, Newtown Township officials have been mum on the issue, saying it's not under their perview to designate trick-or-treating. Some parents are pushing back, saying officials should step up in the interest of public safety.

Township Supervisors Chairman Mike Gallagher told Patch Monday that he spoke with Township Manager Kurt Ferguson, who said it's not the municipality's decision to set hours for the holiday.

That position was further maintained by the township police, who wrote this in a Facebook post today: "The Newtown Township Manager has confirmed that Newtown Township has never governed decisions regarding Halloween. It is up to the individual residents to decide whether to proceed with trick or treating for this evening. Please keep in mind that 3/4 of Newtown Township is still without power. The police department with still have extra patrols this evening in order to promote the safety of trick or treaters. Please be safe."

Ferguson did not immeadiately return a call for further clarification Wednesday. However, his administrative assistant said the township still holds the position that it's not weighing in on the issue.

But that answer isn't sitting well with some parents. 

On Tuesday night, Patch posted a story seeking opinions from residents as to whether or not trick-or-treating should be held. More than 30 people commented and most would like to see the township take some leadership on the issue.

Reader Kim W wrote: "I was hoping our community leaders would step forward and at least give us an idea as to what the best thing to do is. With much of Newtown still dark it only makes sense that it should be postponed. How are we gonna know if trick or treating will go on today, or if we should wait?"

"Our leaders need to act like leaders and guide us as a community. Please step up for the well being of our kids and announce say afternoon 2--5 for trick or treating," wrote reader Kate.

"With no power and numerous obstacles to navigate, I think it would be wise to postpone until Friday night or Saturday day/night," wrote reader Donna.

Reader Kathy Meara wrote: "Dark streets and loud generators are no place for kids, not to mention doors opening to dimly lit homes. Aligning with New Jersey is the way to go."

Several area towns, including Northampton, Warminster, Falls and Middletown townships have asked the community to hold off for today and have set alternative times for trick-or-treating.