Changes to the structure of the East Peoria Festival of Lights has resulted in record breaking numbers for 2011. Event coordinator Dan Cunningham reported to the city council Tuesday night, FOLEPI increased revenue by about 110,000 dollars this year compared with 2010.
After some expenses, that means a $70,000 dollar loss last year turned into a $30,000 profit this year. Cunningham says over 23,000 vehicles went through the display this season. That's over 5,000 mor car than in 2010.
Cunningham says there are many reasons for the turnaround, but a couple standout. He says good weather helped, and putting all the displays in one drive around area instead of spreding them throughout the city, centralized the enjoyment.
Cunningham says the committee and city listened to residents suggestions, for one bringing back the skiers and some other former displays people had been missing.
This city was able to cut budget over the past 2 years by enlisting more volunteers as revenue dwindled in 2009 and 2010. This year revenue on a Thursday night of the display broke a single night record by taking in $12,255 dollars.
