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County cautions Goosetown softball organizers: camping, liquor and auto coverage need clearer insurance
Summary
County Attorney Morgan Smith told commissioners the Goosetown Softball Tournament permit lacks clear insurance coverage for tent camping and vehicle access; MMIA recommended limiting camping to parked RVs in designated lots or obtaining specific coverage, and staff will seek clarifications before approving camping or field access.
Anaconda-Deer Lodge County commissioners reviewed the special-event permit for the Goosetown Softball Tournament (scheduled July 10–12) and spent much of the June 23 work session on insurance, camping and field-use questions.
County Attorney Morgan Smith told the commission that the county’s insurance carrier, MMIA, does not consider unsanctioned tent camping covered under the county policy and recommended limiting permitted camping to vehicles designed for camping (RVs/campers) parked in a designated area where vehicle insurance is presumed to apply. Smith also noted that the certificates provided did not show covered-auto endorsements, which would be required if vehicles are allowed on fields, and that liquor-liability requirements vary depending on whether the event organizer or a third party serves alcohol. The county’s packet included a USA Softball liability certificate for the tournament and a separate Marsh McLennan policy; Smith said the descriptions provided did not make clear whether camping was actually covered and asked staff to obtain clearer certificates and confirm coverage.
Parks Director Joe Ungaretti and CEO Bill Everett said event organizers have been cooperative historically and stressed the economic benefits of returning events. Jana Roe of Jordi’s Cantina, who agreed to provide alcohol service, told commissioners that last year’s cancellation of Goosetown cost her business about $12,000 in revenue and urged the county to allow the event with appropriate safeguards.
Commissioners discussed field-use limits (the Marty May fields are under an exclusive Little League contract and cannot be included in a county special-event permit) and questioned the identity of the permit sponsor (documents list "Goosetown Softball Tournament" and USA Softball while Chair Kevin Hart said the event has historically been associated with the Anaconda Softball Association). Chair Hart said he opposed general camping in county parks; County Attorney Smith said camping could be permitted conditionally if the county receives proof of insurance that explicitly covers the camping activity. No formal approval to allow unrestricted camping was made; staff were directed to obtain clearer insurance documentation and to return with recommended permit language and conditions.
