Council could require permits for smaller gatherings

Talk about it

The Rosemount City Council held the first hearing Tuesday for an ordinance change that will require a permit for gatherings of 500 or more in city parks. The second reading will take place at the April 3 city council meeting.

The ordinance changes the city’s policy, which currently requires permits for gatherings of 1,200 or more. Parks director Dan Schultz said the change came about as staff noticed a need to better ensure the safety and welfare of people attending large events.

Schultz said more large gatherings are happening in the city’s parks, which is a good thing. But the organizers aren’t always as prepared as city staff would like. By expanding the number of events that require a permit, Schultz said the city can better ensure safety.

Concerns that have come up include having adequate insurance, having the appropriate number of bathrooms and trashcans available, and an having an inclement-weather policy.

A handful of years ago, the city changed its policy from 500 to 1,200. Schultz said that change came about to better accommodate athletic tournaments, which have the necessary amenities to cater to large groups of people.

Staff now feels like returning to the smaller number would be in the city’s best interest. As part of the current change in the ordinance, permits for sports tournaments can be granted by the city staff. Otherwise the city council will have to approve the event.

The ordinance will require an application and fee of $150. The application must be filed with the city clerk at least 60 days prior to the event.

“That way there is plenty of time to make sure everything is taken care of,” Schultz said.

Schultz said the fee is meant to cover staff time in reviewing the application.

Other business

The Rosemount City Council also held a first reading of an ordinance regarding shade tree pest and disease. The ordinance identifies shade tree pests and gives city staff the authority to address nuisances. The ordinance prepares the city for the potential spread of emerald ash borer.

Having a plan helps identify the spread of the pest early and qualifies the city for funding sources. The city is required by the Department of Agriculture to have an ordinance in place. City staff modeled its ordinance after a sample provided by the League of Minnesota Cities.

The second reading of the ordinance will be completed at the April 3 council meeting.

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