North Tonawanda, N.Y. (WBEN) - Think about this: It is just 187 days until the start of Canal Fest.
That is on the mind of Pete Chenier, Canal Fest president, as he prepares to meet with the North Tonawanda Council members during a Jan. 13 work session.
A similar meeting with the City of Tonawanda council and leaders is also in the works.
"We usually wait until after the holidays before we start these meetings," Chenier said.
But the meetings are critically important.
Chenier said he and his committee - all made of volunteers - need feedback and input from leaders on both sides of the canal to make sure the annual bi-county summertime event is a success for all concerned.
Canal Fest is set for July 19-to-26, and, on average, attracts more than 100,000 visitors annually.
The catch is last year, it lasted for the full eight days in North Tonawanda, but only six days in the City of Tonawanda because of operational costs including police and fire coverage.
"To some, it was confusing," Chenier said. "For a couple days, we had Canal Fest going in North Tonawanda but not in the City (of Tonawanda). We hope this year, it is a full eight days for both cities."
Canal Fest paid North Tonawanda $35,000 to help cover its expenses and the City of Tonawanda received $25,000.
"There are costs and safety concerns, we understand that," Chenier said.
Canal Fest has a major economic impact for businesses on both Tonawandas. Chenier said some businesses report a spike in new customers because of Canal Fest.
"We don't hurt them," Chenier said. "We help them thrive."
Plans for this year's Canal Fest is still be worked on by Chenier and his fellow committee members.
"We are always looking for ways to make it better," Chenier said.