Holmes County is poised to implement a new outdoor event ordinance following a heated public hearing during the Board of County Commissioners meeting on December 3, 2024. The ordinance, which has been under discussion for several months, aims to regulate outdoor events in unincorporated areas of the county, but it has sparked significant debate among local landowners and business owners regarding liability and enforcement.

The proposed ordinance stipulates that both the promoter of an event and the landowner can be held liable for any incidents that occur during the event. This provision has drawn criticism from landowners like Lonzo Hornsby, who argued that liability should rest solely with the event promoter, not the property owner. Hornsby emphasized that property owners should not face financial ruin due to actions taken by event organizers, urging the board to reconsider this aspect of the ordinance.

Brooke Ferencak, representing a local business, echoed Hornsby’s concerns, questioning why the ordinance only applies to unincorporated areas and not the entire county. She highlighted inconsistencies within the ordinance, such as the lack of a noise regulation, which was a major complaint during past events. Ferencak also raised concerns about the review process for event applications, suggesting that it lacked transparency and fairness.

In contrast, some business owners expressed support for the ordinance, arguing that it would enhance safety and accountability for events held on private property. One local business owner noted that having a structured process would ensure that all parties involved are responsible for maintaining safety standards during events.

The board acknowledged the concerns raised during the hearing, particularly regarding the liability clauses and the need for a noise ordinance. They indicated a willingness to amend the ordinance in the future as necessary, emphasizing that it is intended to protect the community while allowing for the growth of outdoor events in Holmes County.

As the board prepares to vote on the ordinance, the discussions highlight the ongoing balancing act between fostering community events and protecting the rights and responsibilities of property owners. The outcome of this ordinance could set a precedent for how outdoor events are managed in the county moving forward.