West Milford’s ALF event 2022 will be managed by Festival Works LLC of Sterling Forest, NY

The Township of West Milford Council was expected this week to authorize signing of an agreement with Festival Works LLC of Sterling Forest NY to manage this year’s Autumn Lights Festival (ALF). A resolution will allow administrator William Senande to enter an agreement for services that will be cost free. Date for the festival is Oct. 8 with Oct. 9 as rain date.

The event began 24 years ago as a celebration of the first traffic light being installed in the West Milford business district.

The council resolution noted that the municipality annually coordinates and hosts the festival, a premier community activity requiring both township staff and volunteers to dedicate a great deal of time to ensure its success. Hopes are to build on that acknowledged success.

The document noted that Festival Works LLC has successfully conducted similar events in the region, and the firm has experience, expertise, capital and staffing necessary to build on the success of ALF. The coordinating service will be given at no expense to the township.

West Milford will retain all authority to accept or reject material aspects of ALF.

The Festival Works LLC website lists Christopher Carey as registered agent for the company.

Last year the festival was cancelled because of cost, lack of preparation and safety concerns. At their reorganization meeting at the beginning of the year, the township council adopted a resolution establishing an ALF committee for the purpose of undertaking and promoting this year’s festival.

In re-stablishing the committee in January, the council said it would have ten members, one of whom would be a liaison member of the township council, and nine citizen members. Councilwoman Ada Erik was appointed council liaison by vote of her colleagues. The resolution also said the committee would appoint one of their members as chair.