County attorney outlines revisions to parks and recreation ordinance; board will review before adoption

County attorney Patrick Jorgstetter presented a substantially revised draft of Newton County’s Parks and Recreation ordinance for discussion, proposing clearer definitions, stronger enforcement mechanisms and new restrictions around vehicle use, drones and post‑hours entry.

Key elements of the draft the attorney highlighted include clarified definitions (park, vehicle, weapon), an enforcement mechanism giving the magistrate court authority to impose fines up to the state maximum for county ordinance violations, and a ban on remaining in county parks after posted hours. The draft also tightens rules on vehicles — limiting operation to parking lots, roads and permitted areas — and proposes a permits process for drone operations.

The draft addresses several recurring enforcement problems voiced by staff and commissioners: unauthorized off‑road vehicle use on turf and unmarked areas, unpermitted events and loud sound devices, illegal dumping, and transient camping. It also proposes banning smoking and vaping in parks and limiting alcohol to permitted events. The attorney said state law prevents a blanket ban on possession of weapons in parks but allows prohibition of unlawful use.

Commission feedback: Commissioners asked that the sheriff’s office and fire chief review the draft and return comments. Commissioner Lindsey said she would forward the draft to the sheriff and requested the chief provide input; the attorney agreed to circulate a revised draft incorporating those suggestions and any additional definitions (for example, to better define types of off‑road vehicles).

Next steps: Staff will circulate a revised ordinance and incorporate feedback from the sheriff and fire department. Commissioners were not asked to vote; the attorney said he would present a final version for formal adoption at a future meeting after stakeholder review.