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Local angler seeks seasonal shop space at Riverfront Park; council voices support for trial arrangement
Summary
A former downtown fly shop owner asked the council to allow a seasonal, towable 12-by-24 retail trailer at Riverfront Park for May'October; council members expressed general support and will explore signage, power and parking logistics, but no formal council action was taken.
Dave Blackburn told the council he seeks permission to place a seasonal, towable 12-by-24 retail unit at Riverfront Park from mid-May to mid-October to operate a fly-shop-style business and provide boat/trailer parking during summer months.
Blackburn said he previously operated a downtown fly shop and that rising downtown rents forced him to relocate; he proposed two possible locations at the riverfront: a gravel area near the pavilion and a site near the outfield fence across from the VFW. He said the pavilion area may be convenient but could require highway signage; the gravel lot closer to the pavilion would be inside the park and might lack power without an on-site solution or a solar setup for a cash register.
Council discussion was supportive in principle. One councilor noted the 2010 riverfront plan envisioned recreational and small-business uses in that part of the park and said a temporary structure could catalyze further development. Staff noted the farmers market and other events may use overflow parking on some days and suggested coordination on scheduling and parking. Council did not take a formal vote but instructed staff to explore signage, parking, power access and permitting requirements.
Ending: Staff and Blackburn will explore permit conditions, signage and power options, and the council indicated willingness to consider a trial or seasonal agreement if logistical issues are resolved.
