Council to remove one-event-per-organization limit from draft Wayside policy and focus on parking controls

Councilors reviewed a draft Wayside use resolution aimed at limiting privately sponsored events during peak season to preserve parking for visitors. The draft would cap peak-season uses at 22 days, maintain blackout dates (Memorial Day weekend, July 4 and associated weekend, and Labor Day weekend), and set an application window in November–December for council review in January and decisions in February. The moderator said the intent is to manage parking availability during the busiest season while allowing privately sponsored events outside peak season.

Councilor Ryan and others urged removing a proposed one-event-per-organization limit after the Rockaway Beach Business Association argued for flexibility; the council agreed to strike that limit and bring the revised draft back to a regular meeting. Councilors emphasized vendor parking management (suggesting vendors be required to use the Anchor Street parking lot) and noted that much of the dirt parking along Highway 101 is owned by the Port of Tillamook Bay, which limits the city’s direct control over those spaces. Council directed staff to study longer-term park-use criteria, parking expansion options, and equitable event-value standards before final adoption.