Eagle Pass moves toward formal special-event application and security fee policy for parks and tournaments

City staff presented a draft special-event application and fee schedule Tuesday that would require event organizers to request permits and to pay for any security required for special events, tournaments and leagues.

Parks and Recreation Director described a plan to route special-event requests through a single application so city departments—police, fire, public works and finance—can confirm needs such as barricades, trash pickup, electricity and security. The proposal would charge event-based security fees based on police overtime rates (example: $45 per hour for officers) and estimated production costs; staff estimated a typical security cost of about $135 for a three- to four-hour public event, and higher amounts for tournaments and leagues.

Council and staff discussed options for security suppliers: contracted private security (subject to police approval), constable assistance and in some cases additional police overtime. Captain Fuentes said the police department supports the fee structure but emphasized the city must evaluate who provides security because only commissioned peace officers may enforce certain traffic and public-safety laws.

Councilmembers asked staff to be flexible on lead-time requirements for event applications—some tournaments plan well in advance—and to add explicit guidance on alcohol policies. Parks staff said alcoholic beverages are currently allowed only at Rogers Field and Fort Duncan areas per city ordinance and that they will coordinate with legal staff to clarify any proposed application language.

Council approved the draft application and fee structure with the discussed clarifications and directed staff to finalize the document in coordination with police, fire and legal departments.