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Council adopts parks-controlled-access ordinance to limit unscheduled monopolization of amenities
Summary
Council approved ordinance 529-2026 creating 2-hour maximum use rules for unreserved park shelters, access-zone protections around restrooms/playground entrances, reservation requirements for groups over 10, and administrative enforcement by Parks & Rec.
The council considered and approved ordinance No. 529-2026 establishing controlled access rules for town parks. Parks Director Gary explained the ordinance’s purpose is to promote safe, orderly and equitable public use of town amenities by setting a two-hour maximum for unscheduled use of reservable facilities (shelters, pavilions), defining access zones (areas around restrooms, playground boundaries and facility entrances where property cannot be left to block access), and requiring reservations for organized groups of more than 10.
The ordinance includes protected-activity language to preserve constitutionally protected expressive conduct and allows the parks director to establish administrative procedures and fees; enforcement is by parks staff or law enforcement. Council discussed including greenway access points and the new downtown library park under the ordinance. The ordinance passed on council motion and the mayor confirmed it would be enforced consistent with the fee schedule and managerial discretion for waivers.
