When you open Medford Township's official website you're greeted with drone video of a crowded run over a Township street, with participants in baby blue T-shirts and spectators on the sidewalk. The slide show later includes a photo of Johnson's Corner Farm, the venue for many packed events from apple picking to pumpkin hayrides during the warmer months.
Special events in Medford have grown in popularity. Now the Township wants to more closely regulate commercial special events on private property "to mitigate the potential for material impact on public safety and municipal services," according to a new local law that Township Council will consider at its April 15 meeting after a public hearing.
The ordinance was unanimously passed on its first reading before Council on April 1 with the only comment a question from a Council member who asked if, under the law, permits needed to be issued for every event that is planned. He was told each event needs its own permit.
The law, applying to outdoor events charging admission and attracting 50 or more people, goes into effect immediately after adoption on April 15 and publication of the law.Â
"Such regulation is necessary due to the proliferation of private special events, conducted on private property, that are commercial in nature and open to the public, such as, for example, craft fairs, flea markets, mud and spartan runs, zombie runs, triathlons, haunted hayrides, concerts, festivals and similar events," according to the ordinance.
The law says the events covered by the regulations charge fees to attend or participate. Other examples are theatrical performances, exhibitions, sporting events and similar activities.
"Such private special events draw vehicular traffic and potentially impact public safety and, at times, potentially tax municipal resources, such as police, fire, EMS and public works services," the proposed law states.
Applications for the events must be filed at least 90 days in advance with the Township manager's office and include estimates of the minimum and maximum attendance and number of workers or volunteers. The number of motor vehicles expected also must be included in the application.
Disclosures in the application include a parking plan, a statement on whether food, beverages or alcohol will be served, security arrangements, intention to use tents or canopies and a "receipt evidencing that adequate toilet facilities" are in place for the event. Proof of a minimum of $1 million in general liability insurance also must be provided.
The law states that the application fee for commercial enterprises is $250. Nonprofit organizations that are based in Medford have a reduced fee of $25 for events up to 100 attendees and $125 for more than 100.
"No guests or invitees shall be permitted to sleep on the property where the special private event is conducted and/or in vehicles in any parking area," the law states.
Fees for Township public property, including Tomlinson Mill Park, Bob Meyer Memorial Park, Freedom Park and Cranberry Hall are specified in the law.
