City of Katy shuts down of 30-year community market after attempting to buy out organizer and small business owner [Video]

KATY, Texas (KTRK) — A 30-year tradition in downtown Katy is going away for good because city officials want it that way.

To Betsy Proctor, it feels like the Grinch really did steal her Christmas.

“It’s a 30-year tradition,” Proctor said while choking back tears. “I don’t want to cry. It’s gone.”

For the past thirty years, Proctor, who runs an antique store on Second Street in the town square, has organized a weekend market to attract families to downtown Katy.

What began as a few vendors on a patch of grass has grown into a monthly event called Katy Market Days. The largest event is always the Christmas Market, set to take place this Saturday.

Except this time, it will be her final market because Katy City Hall now refuses to close the streets surrounding the town square.

“It is what it is,” City Administrator Bryon Hebert said, readily admitting the City of Katy wanted Proctor to turn over her event …