Grants Pass council approves Medicine Show Revival at Riverside Park, waiving fees except security deposit

The Grants Pass City Council voted to approve a commercial-activity permit for the Medicine Show Revival at Riverside Park and to waive park fees except for a required security/cleanup deposit.

Brad Clark of Community Development told the council the application describes a free, family-friendly event with live music, educational workshops, retail and food vendors, and an estimated attendance of about 150 people. Clark said the municipal code (6.46) requires council review for commercial activity in city parks. The application listed total fees of $295.50; the applicant asked for a full waiver.

Council members questioned attendance estimates, what 'live animals' meant on the application, and whether the event had enough community reach to justify a waiver. After debate, a motion passed to approve the activity and waive all park fees except the security/cleanup deposit (the deposit is refundable if the park is left in acceptable condition). The roll-call vote was recorded as 5–1 in favor with one vote unavailable because a member experienced technical problems.

Council also discussed alternative approaches earlier in the debate, including denying the waiver and charging the damage-waiver fee (a councilor referenced a $75 minimum) while waiving other costs. The approved motion preserves the deposit to ensure cleanup and to protect city maintenance staff.

The applicant will proceed under municipal code requirements and must comply with all relevant city rules for animals, vendors and event operations.