Washington County declines request to use county-owned lot for race overflow; orders no-parking signage

Washington County officials declined a request to use a county-owned parcel as overflow parking for a bicycle race, citing safety and access concerns and the lack of on-site monitoring.

The request, made on behalf of an event organizer seeking temporary use of a county-owned lot, prompted questions from board members about whether parked vehicles could block fire access, impede large vehicles and tractor-trailers that must maneuver on adjacent properties, and create liability or maintenance problems on an unmaintained site. Board members and staff noted the property had been returned to county ownership after a tax sale and that the county exercises control over the parcel.

County Attorney Dan (county attorney) and County staff member Laura explained the options and recommended referral to the committee. Several board members said the site could be filled and left without an attendant, which would risk blocking fire lanes and hampering milk-truck or emergency access. One board member proposed requiring a deputy sheriff or similar attendant if the county were to allow the event use; others responded that enforcement resources were limited.

After discussion, the board agreed it was not interested in granting permission for the one-time use. The committee also instructed the Department of Public Works to post no-parking/no-trespassing signage at the property to reduce the risk of uncontrolled use and to protect fire access and safety.

The board did not record a roll-call vote in the transcript excerpt; members indicated consensus to refuse permission and to have DPW install signage. No formal rental or permit was granted for the event's requested use of the parcel.

The county’s action leaves event organizers to seek alternate parking arrangements or to provide dedicated, monitored overflow lots that do not rely on county property.