Council approves modified OKAY Fest closure after organizers request Friday setup

Darryl Brand, a representative of the OKAY Theater, asked the council to allow the festival to begin street setup on Friday evening so stage crews could prepare in advance of Saturday programming and limit the closure to the applicant's block. "We're requesting extension on the street closure," Brand said when presenting the application and logistics.

Councilors discussed emergency access, fencing, and impacts on local businesses. The police department said access must be preserved and suggested measures to allow equipment and emergency vehicles to pass; the event organizers said they can provide a contact on-site during setup to coordinate with emergency responders and police.

Mayor Cody Laffer moved to modify the event permit to allow Friday setup starting at 6 p.m., retain access for emergency vehicles and delay permanent fencing until 8 a.m. the following morning. Council voted by voice; the motion carried.

The council also asked staff to refer event-specific traffic and safety details to police and public works subcommittees for recommendations and to return any permit-addendum language at the next meeting.