Tonawanda Tries Again

Officials in North Tonawanda near Buffalo, N.Y., want a promoter to run a new summer concert series next year and bring big-name acts to the area.

Under consideration are proposals for a country music series and a rock ’n’ roll series, according to the Tonawanda News.

The city is looking to draw thousands back to the area that once hosted the Molson Concert Series, which was moved to another city three years ago, and the Labatt Blue Light Concert Series at the city’s Gateway Harbor Park.

Mayor Rob Ortt told the News the city can offer an alternative to shows in nearby counties.

“We have the best venue and there’s no reason we should not have a first-rate concert series,” Ortt said. “Since 2009 there really hasn’t been any nationally recognized acts.”

The Labatt series was canceled in 2008 after a police sting shut down a Dark Star Orchestra performance because of underage drinking.

Promoter Concerts Plus lost its liquor license, which was reinstated after paying a $25 fine but Concert Plus’ financial losses made it impossible to fulfill the schedule.

Lawsuits are reportedly pending against the promoter totaling $60,000.

The North Tonawanda Common Council could make a decision by the end of November.