PARK BOARD ITEM- Shari Kunza, Recreation Manager
Title
PARK USAGE UPDATE
Background
The Parks and Recreation Department has received many requests for large special events at Aquatore, Lakeside Commons, and Town Square Parks. These events range from company picnics to 5K races to flea markets. To ensure the safety of park patrons, renters, and surrounding residents, the City Clerk has updated the City’s special event permitting process and changes to city ordinances. A summary of the changes are:
• Allow temporary licenses for both intoxicating alcohol and 3.2% malt beverages to be sold by nonprofit groups or State-licensed caterers in community parks such as Aquatore, Blaine Baseball Complex, and Lexington Athletic Complex but not in neighborhood parks or at Lakeside Commons
• Advertising/signage allowed in City parks only as part of a City-approved event (special event license or City-sponsored event)
• Authority for City Manager to establish additional regulations with regard to special events in public parks such as appropriate insurance, traffic management plans, parking requirements, and inspections
• Minor housekeeping amendments with regard to definition of motorboats within City limits to be consistent with definition in 82-196 operated solely be an electric trolling device
A summary of the proposed special event license amendments include:
• Clearer definitions of locations, types of events, number of people, etc.
• Better defined application process that identifies an event contact person, dates/location/times, number of participants, traffic management plan and fees if required
• Liability insurance requirements, administrative review/approval process including notice to surrounding property owners, trash/recycling requirements, and exemptions
Recommendation
Informational