MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP - With less than 4 weeks until Halloween, the Meridian Township Board agreed to convert celebrations into virtual events over concerns over the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Board made it clear during the meeting that they can’t cancel Halloween, however, they unanimously agreed to discourage residents from Trick-or-Treating and to follow CDC guidelines.

“We need to follow the public health recommendation in this which is traditional Trick-or-Treating really should not happen this year,” said Treasurer Phil Deschaine. “It’s going to be up to every family in Meridian Township to make that call and neighborhoods to decide on how they’re going to participate.”

In an effort to still offer celebratory events to residents, Meridian Township Parks and Recreation Director, LuAnn Maisner, suggested virtual Halloween costume contests and potential for a Halloween party at the new large dog park that opened on October 1st.

“I would concur as a public health professional that I just am uncomfortable doing any in person group activities,” said Trustee, Courtney Wisinski. “I would support and certainly contribute to any brainstorming for any virtual activities that you might do, and certainly participate.”

None of the Board members spoke in favor of in person celebrations, but did acknowledge that if residents plan to pass out candy, they should try to disperse the candy into bags in order to avoid numerous children reaching into a common bowl.