COUNTY TO BEGIN ENFORCING MASS GATHERING LAWS

  

Washington County is looking into large gatherings of people at events that take place in rural parts of the county.  Wednesday, representatives from the Sheriff’s Office, Department of Public Safety, Office of Emergency Management, County Attorney, and District Attorney, as well as Commissioner Luther Hueske and County Judge John Brieden, met to discuss the complaints arising out of numerous events taking place in the unincorporated areas of the county, such as bicycle races, festivals, and trail rides.  Due to complaints from property owners living near these events and evidence of criminal violations during some of these events, local officials are discussing implementation of local permitting for such events.  In 2014, Washington County adopted the legislated Mass Gathering Act, which regulates large gatherings of over 2500 people or smaller groups if at least 51%of them are minors and alcohol is available through a permitting process. Applicants for the permit have to provide details of how they will accommodate and insure the security of those attending.

Last month, the first of these permits was granted by the county for an obstacle course race near Chappell Hill.  That event had over 7000 people attending and according to Emergency Management Coordinator Bryan Ruemke had very few problems.

At the meeting Wednesday officials discussed the need for more groups to be aware that the Mass Gathering Permit is required in Washington County and will be more strictly enforced in the future.

The Act allows for fines and administrative fees, and even jail time, for violations.  The Mass Gathering Permit is administered locally by Emergency Management Coordinator Bryan Ruemke, who will begin contacting representatives from known organizers of mass gatherings about the need to apply.

There are a number of requirements before the county can enforce the Permit against other smaller events such as trail rides and bicycle races with fewer people involved. Officials say the process is being pursued and addressed as quickly as possible.