Acton sets $132 minimum emergency staffing rate and approves Renaissance Fair permits

The Town of Acton Select Board on May 21 set a minimum charge of $132 per hour for mass‑gathering emergency coverage to ensure two emergency staff are on site, and it approved three Mass Gathering permits for a Renaissance Fair covering three consecutive weekends in July and early August.

Fire Chief Wayne Ham and the Town Administrator presented the recommended event billing approach, saying the $132 hourly rate covers two personnel and associated taxes; the chief recommended the town require two emergency staff at events that obtain Mass Gathering permits. Chief Ham explained the policy is structured so the rate is not tied to renting a particular vehicle and to avoid complications around equipment availability.

Winchell moved to set the $132 rate for two persons; Denekamp seconded and the motion carried with all members voting yes. Separately, McGurty moved to approve three Mass Gathering permits for the Renaissance Fair (July 19–26 and Aug. 2, 2025) with the condition that gates, services and staff be managed to minimize road impacts and that two emergency staff be on site; Denekamp and Walsh seconded and the motion carried. The Fire Chief estimated daily attendance at 2,000 to 3,000 people per day for the event.

During public comment, resident Joyce Bakshi asked whether the fair organizers are incorporated and whether they hold their own insurance; the Town Administrator said the appropriate liability insurance had been provided. Bakshi also said she felt the Board was being generous with the $132 fee.

Ending: The Board set the event staffing fee and approved the permits; event organizers must meet the staffing and liability requirements attached to the Mass Gathering permits.