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After gazebo damage, board bans open fires on town property and discusses gazebo rental policy
Summary
Following grease damage to the gazebo at Usula Park, the board voted to prohibit open fires and grills on town property unless expressly sanctioned, and discussed a proposed two-hour reservation and fee policy for the gazebo with waivers and limits on commercial use.
The board voted to restrict open fires and personal grilling on all town properties unless the activity is sanctioned by the town (for example, an event organized by the fire department or an approved nonprofit). The action followed an incident at Usula Park in which grease or scorching from a grill stained and damaged the gazebo surface and nearby tracks.
A board member proposed a general restriction to reduce safety and maintenance risks; supporters said the town should retain the ability to permit sanctioned events while preventing ad hoc grilling that could damage facilities. The motion to restrict open fires on town property passed by voice vote.
Separately, board members discussed a proposed reservation and rental framework for the new gazebo: two-hour increments, a damage deposit, an optional insurance requirement or waiver, discounted resident rates and an explicit ban on overnight/24‑hour occupancy. Board members asked staff to refine the draft contract to prohibit for-profit ticketed events without prior board approval and asked for a final draft at the next meeting.
