Resident seeks guidance to host a free "Grill and Chill" community cookout; council asks for insurance and logistics plan

Ashley Smith (Taylor), a resident at 254 N. Main Street, asked the council what requirements the borough expects from a citizen-sponsored, free community event and said she would provide food, music and activities. "She is interested in holding a 'Grill and Chill' cookout as a free event for the community where she would provide music, games and crafts," the minutes record.

Council members and borough counsel outlined several requirements and concerns. Samantha Craley-Byerts, the borough solicitor, suggested the organizer obtain a one-day general liability policy and add Red Lion Borough as an additional insured. Council members discussed food-safety and licensing: Cindy Barley asked whether the organizer would supply the food and noted the necessity of an insurance rider if food is served; Tony Musso said a vendor license may be required if a caterer is involved; Michelle Poole, the borough manager, flagged food-service concerns and logistics.

Members asked Smith to provide a written outline of plans, including an emergency medical plan and cleanup plan. Barley also raised background‑check and committee‑assignment questions and suggested the council determine which committee would develop a formal policy. Smith said the event would run roughly 1–4 p.m. Council tabled the matter for more formal discussion at the next work session so a consistent policy can be drafted.

Why it matters: The request illustrates residents' interest in grassroots community programming and the council's caution about public‑safety, insurance and vendor rules that affect use of borough property.