North Ogden Council debates parade route and chair placement policy for Cherry Days

The North Ogden City Audit Committee convened on April 1, 2025, to discuss several key agenda items, primarily focusing on the upcoming Cherry Days events and the logistics surrounding the parade route.

The meeting commenced with a brief introduction and a call for any conflicts of interest, which yielded no disclosures. Following this, the committee opened the floor for public comments. Susan Kilborn, a North Ogden resident, indicated her intention to comment after the discussions.

The first major topic addressed was the relocation of the Cherry Days parade route. Initially proposed to be held on 3100, the police department later recommended moving it to Washington Boulevard. Committee members discussed the pros and cons of both routes, emphasizing safety concerns and traffic management. The consensus leaned towards Washington Boulevard, as it was deemed more effective for managing pedestrian flow and vehicle access during the parade. The committee agreed to proceed with this recommendation, ensuring that necessary permits were already in place.

Another significant discussion revolved around the management of chairs placed by attendees along the parade route. Staff expressed concerns about escalating conflicts in previous years regarding early chair placement, which often led to confrontations. The committee debated whether to enforce a policy against early chair placement or to allow residents to set up their chairs at their discretion. Ultimately, it was decided to encourage residents to be respectful of others' property and to clarify that the city would not be responsible for any personal items left unattended.

The meeting also touched on the logistics of parking for the Cherry Days events, particularly at Burger Park. The committee acknowledged the need for better parking management and discussed potential solutions, including limiting parking to one side of the road to enhance safety.

In conclusion, the meeting highlighted the committee's commitment to ensuring a safe and enjoyable Cherry Days celebration. The decision to relocate the parade to Washington Boulevard and the discussions surrounding chair management and parking logistics reflect the committee's proactive approach to addressing community concerns and enhancing event organization. Further updates and preparations will continue as the event date approaches.