Lithonia council debates dusk‑to‑dawn park closures, event curfews and attendance fees

Council members in Lithonia spent substantial time debating when city parks should close and how to treat scheduled events that run past typical closing times. Members raised neighbor‑noise concerns, asked for comparisons with other cities and discussed charging event organizers based on expected attendance.

"We have loud music every weekend," said Council member (S2), arguing that continual late‑night events make it hard for neighbors "you can't even go in the yard." Other members said an event classification — not just an 'open' versus 'closed' status — is needed to handle large, ticketed gatherings.

Moderator (S3) noted examples of large events in nearby parks, saying those events can draw thousands and often end as late as 11 p.m. to midnight, and that a sliding‑scale fee tied to attendance might be appropriate. "Based on the event, you can kinda determine that based on what the [organizer] is telling it," Moderator (S3) said, suggesting use of Eventbrite or similar tools to estimate turnout.

Members also discussed whether nonprofits should receive discounted rates and whether to charge a separate setup fee. "You never know who they are," Council member (S2) said of organizations claiming nonprofit status, arguing for a single clear rate or tighter verification.

Several council members proposed assigning staff oversight of event monitoring; Moderator (S3) said, "I'm assuming that Renee will be over the process," and the group asked staff to research fees charged by comparable municipalities and return with options.

The council did not adopt new rules at the meeting. Instead, members agreed to gather comparative fee schedules, clarify whether and how nonprofits would be treated, and place the item on a future agenda for annual review.