By Pat Culverhouse

Webster Parish Police Jury members took special interest in the parish ordinance governing public interest and special events, amending the code to put teeth into the regulation of outdoor events in the parish.

Jurors agreed to accept changes to the ordinance which was first adopted in 2021.

In the amended ordinance, public interest and special events are defined as outdoor music events, carnivals, circuses, trail rides and similar activities “…intended to appeal to the public at-large rather than any specific, targeted group.”

Specifically, the amended ordinance applies to gatherings of people that will require charging a fee or giving a donation to gain entry into an event or purchase merchandise “for entry or gain.” It’s also intended to apply to commercial activities generating revenue and/or held in exchange for goods and services.

Exempted are non-commercial, family, church, political or other non-commercial assemblies.

Coordination between the police jury, Sheriff’s Office, parish fire districts and emergency medical services and the Webster Parish Health Unit is required to approve a permit application for events.

A non-refundable $500 fee will be required at the time of filing for application a permit. Advance deposits must be provided to cover costs associated with, among other items, security plans including security personnel, law enforcement and emergency vehicles.

Under the amended ordinance, the minimum number of private security officers shall be at a ratio of one security personnel per 50 attendees if alcohol is not present at the event and one security personnel per 25 attendees if alcohol is present at the event.

Traffic has been a problem at some events, with roads often becoming so congested that vehicles could not travel between those parked alongside the roadways. Officials had pointed out that emergency vehicles, if needed, could not get close to the party sites.

After a January incident where six persons were shot at a large bonfire party near Dubberly, law enforcement officials urged the jury to strengthen its existing ordinance to tighten the permit process and increase security, safety and enforcement measures.

Amended ordinance language now gives the sheriff’s department the power and authority to shut down any public interest or special event if it determines the event is in violation of any permit conditions or the safety and security plans.