Changes are on the way for the special events licensing process in Prince Edward County.
Prince Edward County Committee of the Whole heard a presentation from municipal staff on Thursday, seeking approval to begin public consultation on a draft framework for a new special events by-law.
The new by-law would handle licensing for special events, which has been previously handled under zoning by-laws.
During the presentation, staff highlighted that the current rules for special events, including what kinds of events can be held where in Prince Edward County, are complex and can be confusing. The intent of the new by-laws is to simplify the process for both municipal staff and event organizers.
The current motion isn’t changing the rules yet, since a public consultation process including public meetings, focus groups, conversations with local stakeholders such as businesses and the chamber of commerce, and a public survey will take place to determine if changes need to be made to the framework to better meet the community’s needs.
Councillor John Hirsch was supportive of the new by-law, and welcomed the chance to get public input to help shape the new system.
“We’ve had all kinds of issues with special events over the last number of years and it’s definitely time to get into some kind of a permitting system,” said Councillor Hirsch.
The motion was approved by the committee, and sent to council for final approval.
