BACKGROUND

Reynier Park is relatively small (approx. 15,000 sq ft), and located in an area completely bounded by residential homes (Olin St. to the north, Reynier Ave. to the east, Hargis St. to the south, and Shenandoah St. to the west). As such, it has the potential to be a positive asset to the immediate community.

ISSUE

However, the park has become a preferred outdoor party venue for very large gatherings (up to 200 people) nearly every weekend. These parties often take place all-day and in to the evening hours, with loud (sometimes live) music, large open grills (one roasted a whole pig), bouncy houses, and in one case, a mechanical bull. Party goers take up much of the parking in this residential area and in some cases, block driveways. Posted rules of the park are routinely disregarded.

THEREFORE, WE RESPECTFULLY REQUEST THAT the park continue to be inclusive, shared by residents and non-residents alike, but a mechanism for enforcing existing rules is necessary. Due to the proliferation of multiple, large scale parties, it would be advisable to require reservations and paid permits for events and parties, including a refundable clean-up deposit. As the park has no dedicated parking, parties or events should be limited to a maximum of 40 people and four hours, with no more than two concurrent events at any one time. Larger community events would be handled through a special event application process, and must incorporate additional requirements for safety, sanitation, and prior public notice.