City Turns Baptist Church Into Booze Beacon

[Jerome]

Church Wants Green Light Gone From Clock Tower

The clock on top of First Baptist Church in Watertown is lit green in celebration of this weekend's Irish festival. The church's pastor, Reverend Jeffrey Smith, says that's a problem.

The city of Watertown owns the clock, but the church owns the building. When the city decided to light the clock green, it didn't need permission from Reverend Smith.

New Controversy Erupts Over Watertown Clock Lighting

if other groups want the clock lit in different colors for their causes, Department of Public Works Chief Gene Hayes has some concerns

there's one thing the pastor would like from city hall - a little more respect. Smith is still smarting over not being consulted about what the city does with its clock, in his tower. "I don't believe that they would have done this to St. Pat's, Holy Family or First Pres," he said

 

[mont974x4]

And here we have another example of why we should not engage in these types of deals with outside groups. It may seem wise, and expedient, to sell space to the city to get a clock....or a company to build a cell tower on your property and disguise it with a steeple....but beware the fine print. You have to imagine the worst case scenario, the unexpected hiccups, and plan for them as best you can. IMO, just say no is a good policy here. Find another way to fund your projects.