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DeSoto jurors approve MBD Motorsports overflow parking after debate over fairness; National Night Out usage also cleared
Summary
After debate over precedent and fairness, jurors approved MBD Motorsports' request to use a field for overflow parking for a Dec. race; the jury also authorized use of jury grounds for the City's National Night Out and discussed insurance/hold‑harmless protections.
The DeSoto Parish Police Jury approved a request from MBD Motorsports to use the field behind the modern electronic complex and adjacent ball fields for overflow parking for an event scheduled Dec. 19–21.
Sherry Beth Madewell (MBD Motorsports) told jurors the group has a cooperative agreement with the parish, draws several hundred spectators to regular events and maintains the site, cleanup and safety. She said the event typically draws “4 or 500 people a weekend” and described arrangements for shuttles and additional parking. "We do all the cleanup," Madewell said.
Jurors debated fairness and precedent; juror Mariel Burrell (Miss Burrell) said similar permission should be applied consistently and asked why some groups are allowed outdoor activities while others are not. Supporters said prior agreements and clean records justified the temporary permission; staff said the airport and 4‑H center had offered overflow parking and shuttles in coordination.
The jury approved the parking use by roll call.
Separately the jury authorized the City of Mansfield's National Night Out event on courthouse grounds and discussed whether the city should obtain an event insurance policy or sign a hold harmless agreement. Legal counsel recommended insurance as superior protection to a mere hold harmless clause; jurors asked staff to confirm insurance coverage prior to ratifying the event in final paperwork.
Why it matters: The decisions permit a high‑attendance private event to use public grounds and raise questions about equal treatment for other user groups and risk management for events on jury property.
What happened next: Permissions were granted; staff was asked to clarify terms, insurance and any required permits.
