Beach vendor asks Harrison County to allow catered, bar and amplified-music special events on public beach

A beach vendor told the Harrison County Board of Supervisors she is seeking flexibility in current beach rules so licensed caterers, bar service and limited amplified music can be permitted for one-off special events.

Renata Flat Patterson, who identified herself as a beach cabana operator, said much of her business revenue comes from hosting beach events such as weddings and private dinners. "All we're asking is that a special events permit would be put in place where for a specific date and time that these things would be able to be allowed during a special event," Patterson said.

Patterson said existing rules prohibit amplified music, on‑site catering and alcoholic-beverage service at the county beach, and that clients have gone to neighboring jurisdictions that allow such events. She asked the board for a permitting path so vendors could host licensed catering and bar service during permitted events.

Board members asked clarifying questions; no vote was taken. The board president thanked Patterson for her presentation and indicated staff would advise further, but no formal direction or amendments to beach regulations were recorded in the meeting minutes.

Why it matters: Local beach vendors report event-hosting is a growing source of revenue, and changes to beach permitting would affect public-use rules, enforcement and possibly public-safety and sanitation planning. The board did not adopt a new policy or ordinance during the meeting.

Next steps: The presentation was informational and the board did not take formal action; any change to beach use rules would require staff recommendations, drafting of permit language, and a future public hearing and vote.