Roanoke Rapids City Council tonight by a 4-1 vote approved giving the Roanoke Rapids Christmas Parade $2,000.

It wasn’t, however, with some debate, as council determined whether giving to the group sponsoring the parade, the Roanoke Valley Patriots, wouldn’t be considered a political donation.

City Manager Paul Sabiston originally suggested since the group could be considered political that it might be better if the city designated the funds to go to a particular vendor.

Mayor Emery Doughtie said Pat Croisetiere, who leads the group, “Stepped up and volunteered. It looks like to me they want to have a festive Christmas parade.”

Croisetiere told council the group has opened an account under the Roanoke Rapids Christmas Parade.

“We needed someone to step forward,” Councilman Greg Lawson said. “All the children will benefit.”

Croisetiere said if it would ease council’s minds, the group wouldn’t mention the name Roanoke Valley Patriots on radio spots.

Council approved the donation with Carl Ferebee voting against the measure.

He said following the meeting he had no comment on why he voted against the donation. “I looked at it and made a decision.”

The parade has joined with the Children’s Miracle Network, Croisetiere said in a news release. “Not only do these children hold a special place in our hearts, they will hold a special place in the parade.”

More information can be obtained by calling 252-586-7258 or 252-578-7027.

In other matters tonight council:

Approved a special use permit that would allow A-Z Children’s Enrichment Academy at 310 Charlotte Street to operate from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Although several neighbors in the area objected, council agreed to grant the special use permit because of the history of the building, where a day care center has been operated since 1967.

Recognized City Clerk Lisa Vincent for obtaining her Master Municipal Clerk designation, the highest professional designation given by the International Institute of Municipal Clerks.