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Anyone driving or walking by the Christmas tree along Broad Street can see the array of lights are on at night.
It's an instant holiday mood-inspiring vision, one seen for many years by those who would drive by the former Sylvania plant property.
These days, the tree towers high over the front lawn of the Hutchinson property. This year, however, while the tree is lit there won't be an official tree lighting, according to Mayor Steve Bagwell.
Minutes after the news of the tree lighting service being canceled was posted on the Montoursville Recreation Board's site on Facebook, the comments poured in, he said.
"It wasn't a lack of enthusiasm that Grinched us," Bagwell said.
This year, there were some liability-
related issues. As the event approached, the board became more aware of these issues and by the time some of them became apparent it was too late to be sure that the scheduled event would be able to occur with the proper precautions, he said.
Borough Solicitor Chris Kenyon of McCormick Law Firm was contacted for information.
In fact, the property owner, board, and former Mayor John Dorin, who has a nonprofit to light the tree, were happy to take part, he said, adding a decision was made by the council and he agreed with it.
One of the primary responsibilities of the borough council is to protect the finances of the borough, Bagwell said.
"What is exciting is that community organizations are already working together to find ways to make sure that what has been done intermittently, becomes a regular Christmastime event," Bagwell said.
He noted how much it was shown by the comments and statements he's been given that most in the community want to see a tree lighting event happen.
As of this month, the board will be working hard to pave the way for whatever follows, he said.
Those details are in the development stage and could not be revealed but there are efforts to ensure the tree lighting is done on a more permanent annual basis rather than hit-and-miss.
"I'm proud of the board," said Bagwell. "I will miss the ceremony this year, but look forward to participating in the future, if asked, or standing in the crowd, photographing it," he said.
"Merry Christmas!"