CC policies

Times, Jan. 22, 2014

Bob

The Town Council adopted operational policies for the Community Center at its Jan. 16 meeting, however, with only a couple of exceptions there is nothing new about them.

Community Services Director Mark Mayer told the council that these are policies that have been used since the center opened in 2000.

“We could find no evidence that the policies were ever formally adopted,” Mayer said.

However, since the opening of the center the council has addressed a couple of issues regarding the facility’s operation.

A new kitchen policy was adopted last year, and changes were made previously to liquor policies.

With the exception of those two items, no other part of the policies has been formally adopted, according to Mayer.

“It is the desire of staff that the remaining policies that have been in practice at the building also be approved,” he said.

The council did make one other formal change, this to the policy regarding firearms. The policy prohibits firearms, explosives and other weapons except for those carried by a peace officer on duty.

Mayor Linda Kavanagh noted that it is Sheriff’s Office policy that all certified deputies carry weapons at all times, including off-duty.

Kavanagh said Capt. Joe Rodriquez recommended the policy exempt all federal or state certified peace officers.

The council approved that change along with the overall document.

Councilwoman Ginny Dickey asked for clarification on a section that regulates broadcasting of events or activities at the Community Center.

Dickey asked whether that extended to more personal activities such as photographing or video recording a wedding and making a social media posting of that recording.

Mayer told the council he has no recollection of that provision of the policies ever being used.

Town Attorney Andrew McGuire told Dickey he believes the regulations apply only to commercial radio and television broadcasts, however, he said he would investigate to see whether the policy needs further clarification.

The policy as written requires only written permission to make such broadcasts and gives the town the option of charging a license fee.

Councilman Tait Elkie asked about a provision in the section related to liquor consumption that prohibits a cash bar for events.

Mayer said that provision was included to comply with state law.

The council voted 7-0 to adopt the Community Center Operational Policies.