Currently, the city of Marshall does not have a permitting process in place regarding special events occurring in the city. On February 4, the council approved the first reading of a proposed ordinance to establish a process.
However, during the council meeting on Tuesday, February 19, resident Matt Smith raised some concerns.

Part of the proposed ordinance reads: “Applications for a special-events permit shall be made to the city administrator at least 30 days prior to the start of the event, except applications for those events which will have significant additional demand on city services, shall submit applications at least 60 days in advance of the event.”
Smith said he understands safety procedures have to be in place.

Ward 2 Councilman Chuck Hines said he received some feedback about the proposed ordinance, as well. He said “I don’t think anybody is opposed to the ordinance; it’s more about the way it is written.” Smith said “the way it’s written, it leaves a lot up to interpretation. I think it could be simplified for our town.”
The proposed ordinance as it is written now can be viewed and questions can be asked at the city offices’ building at 214 North Lafayette Avenue.
The council will take up the proposed ordinance again at a future meeting. The next council meeting is scheduled to begin at 6 p.m. on Monday, March 4.