Neighbors tell Harvey County commission events at Pete's Puddle bring trespass, trash and safety worries

Neighbors of Pete’s Puddle told the Harvey County Planning Commission they have experienced trespassing, trash and worry about blocking access during events, though some said they have not yet seen emergency access blocked.

Katie Schrag, who owns the pasture adjacent to the venue, questioned reports of permanent living on the property and asked for clearer guidelines on crowd size and types of events; David Jackson, who relies on a private easement for egress, said he has not had access problems to date but expressed concern about potential interference with delivery trucks and emergency vehicles. Bob Schrag thanked the Andersons for responding to a trespass incident and asked for speed control on the road and better trash management after events. The applicants acknowledged trash has been an issue and said they would work to address cleanup, add address signage and provide alternate delivery access when needed.

The public comments framed several of the commission’s later conditions, including prohibitions on parking in rights-of-way, a requirement that driveways/easements be kept passable for neighboring access and emergency vehicles, and a requirement that event trash and debris be cleared within 24 hours. The record shows neighbors asked for measurable enforcement and clarified ownership of parking areas remains a concern; staff noted the applicant’s parking arrangements are based on agreements and that verification of parking ownership and signed agreements is part of the permit finalization process.