Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Campground Rules topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Mitchell parks board adopts revised campground rules, aims to curb leash, waste and overflow issues
Summary
The Mitchell Parks and Recreation Board approved updated campground rules to be distributed at check-in after members raised recurring problems with unleashed dogs, pet waste and vehicle overflow. Staff said hosts and posted rules should reduce conflicts; the board approved the changes by motion.
The Mitchell Parks and Recreation Board voted to approve revised campground rules that officials said will make enforcement clearer for visitors who register online and reduce recurring problems with unleashed dogs, pet waste and vehicles parked off-sites.
Board members said the new handout — identical to the online form — will be handed to campers at arrival so "there won't be any excuses for I didn't know," Speaker 4 said during the meeting. The board approved the change by motion (Speaker 5 moved; seconded).
Why it matters: Staff cited repeated complaints about pets off leash and campers leaving multiple vehicles in overflow areas, which can block roads and create safety hazards. Speaker 1 said many campers are older and may not use QR codes or online instructions, so paper handouts and on-site campground hosts will remain important.
What the rules say: The board reiterated existing expectations: leashed pets, prompt cleanup of pet waste and one vehicle per campsite unless the site is a pull-through that accommodates more. Speaker 1 said hosts will personally hand a rules sheet to arriving campers and try a "diplomatic" approach to enforcement to avoid confrontations.
Money and logistics: Hosts collect cash deposits and report issues to office staff (Angel), who handles follow-up. The board discussed digital options; Speaker 2 suggested adding a QR code and website posting to reduce paper and administrative cost, while staff noted a portion of campers prefer paper.
Next steps: Staff will implement handouts and continue using campground hosts as front-line enforcers. The board approved the revised rules during the meeting and moved on to other agenda items.
