PROVIDENCE, R. I. -- The city licensing board approved an outdoor entertainment license for next month's Dominican Festival, the 26th annual, but the okay will be vacated if event organizers fail to pay its arrears to the city.
Clarence Gough, vice president of the local police union, said $31,000 is owed for past police detail. He also testified against the license because he said the festival and parade put officers at risk.
The police seized three guns and a knife in the aftermath of the last year's celebration, but the police chief then said most in attendance at the main event were largely peaceful.
Organizer Marilyn Sanchez, president of the Dominican cultural group Quisqueya in Action, told the licensing board she is working with city officials on a financial arrangement to become up to date. She said she also met with the public safety commissioner, police chief and business owners to discuss ways to curb the violence.
"We've never had any issues within the parade," she said. "... We've been more than responsible."
This year's parade occurs August 11 from 10 a.m. to noon on Broad Street. The festival follows it from noon to 7:30 p.m. at the Temple to Music in Roger Williams Park.