Ordinance would make permit process simpler

A proposed ordinance covering parades and other special events aims to simplify the permit process by spelling out who is responsible for what, according to Cape Girardeau police chief Steve Strong.

At a work session Tuesday, city council members discussed the ordinance.

In September 1999, the city manager established a team of city employees to draft an ordinance relating to special events that require help from city departments.

Under the ordinance, the city manager would have the power to grant or deny permits. He would also be able to attach conditions to any permit granted.

Councilman Tom Neumeyer, mentioning complaints he received during Riverfest, asked if loud outdoor concerts played late at night would be addressed.

Strong said the ordinance imposes time limits on special events, 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 8 a.m. until midnight on Friday and Saturdays.

Among other things, the city would require applicants to submit a plan for lighting, music, loudspeakers and sound systems. Also required would be a cleanup plan.

Applications for special events are available from the city clerk, and parade permit applications are available at the police station.

Events sponsored by local public schools, military or emergency services programs are exempt from rules surrounding permit applications.

Proposed penalties would be a $500 fine and up to three months in jail.In other business:

The council approved an ordinance that authorizes the acquisition of temporary easements of up to 12 residences near Jefferson Elementary school for a construction plan that would extend three streets: College, Missouri and Louisiana.

Duffers beware. The golf advisory board is considering the addition of sand bunkers to the Jaycee Municipal Golf Course. Golf foreman Randy Lueder said the course had sand bunkers in previous years, but they were removed because they were poorly built and couldn't be maintained. The new bunkers would be reconstructed so those problems could be avoided, he said.

abuchanan@semissourian

335-6611, extension 160