Rogers approves event street closing changes

ROGERS -- The City Council approved requiring event planners to go through a series of steps before requesting street closings.

Some Rogers business owners expressed concerns about businesses being negatively affected by street closings this spring. City official also said an increase in event requests was causing some growing pains.

The requirements passed Tuesday requires event planners to submit requests to the Transportation Committee 45 days before to the event. It also requires notification of all property owners 15 days before to the committee meeting.

"I think we have come up with something that will meet our needs," said Mark Kruger, council member. "It should make life easier for our merchants."

Business owners downtown said closing streets made it difficult for customers to get to their stores. Planners said events promoted the city and attracted people downtown.

Chris Griffin, staff attorney, said the old ordinance required requests go before the committee two meetings before the event. He said that was about 25 days. It also didn't require property owners be notified.

Business owners said they needed more time to plan around street closings, Griffin said. He said the notification also makes them aware of the committee meeting. He said the owners will be able to express concerns during the meeting.

Jessica Rush, Main Street Rogers interim director, works with event planners who hold events downtown. She also is co-owner of Levi's Gastrolounge downtown.

"I agree with the ordinance from the business prospective," Rush said. "It also could potentially prohibit events from happening in a short amount of time."

Kruger said the city could always rework the requirements if need be.

"We will implement this and try it for awhile," Kruger said.

Griffin said the law will go into effect in 60 days. He said less events should be happening in the winter months. This will give planners time to adjust to the new law.

NW News on 09/23/2015

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