One of Tyrone’s most cherished events could soon come to an end, at least as a government-sponsored celebration.

During Wednesday night’s budget hearings, Tyrone Town Councilman Grace Caldwell advocated removing the $31,000 from next year’s budget for the festival known as Founder’s Day.

“I just don’t think that’s a function of government,” she said.

Since 1977, the town has staged Founder’s Day in September as a town-wide festival incorporating everything from road races, beauty contests and a parade.

“I just think this is something other groups can do, like the Kiwanis in Fayetteville staging the fair,” Caldwell added.

Town Manager Barry Amos said the town has been turning over many of the functions of Founder’s Day to other organizations and said the money budgeted by City hall is basically a wash, when the revenues from licenses and other items are considered.

Currently, the town budgets for liability insurance, fireworks and portable toilet rentals.

“You can almost look upon it as an economic development issue,” said Councilman Paul Letourneau.

Councilman Mike Smola said the money should be kept in this year’s budget, but a detailed analysis should be done after this year’s festival to see where the festival stands with regards to expenses.

Caldwell agreed, but said she would favor local organizations taking over the total effort next year.

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