Broussard adopts rules for Bruce Ardy Events Center; council clarifies insurance, catering and refund policies

On Sept. 9, 2025, the City of Broussard Council adopted Resolution 8852‑25, which establishes rules and procedures for renting the Bruce Ardy Events Center. Gerald, who assisted city staff in drafting the rental package, presented the rules. Council members queried provisions on decorations, catering, alcohol service, insurance and refund policies; staff clarified several points during the discussion.

Key provisions explained at the meeting: the facility rental requires a professional catering service for prepared food and any alcohol service must be handled by licensed bartenders; a police presence may be required when alcohol is served. The rentee must provide event insurance; the catering company and any alcohol servers must demonstrate appropriate licenses and insurance. The council also discussed limits on decorations (tape, staples) and the use of open flames; the draft prohibits open flames but allows warming methods such as sternos when provided by a licensed catering service. Gerald said the city would require proof of compliance with these rules.

Reservation and refund policy: staff said the initial $250 reservation fee secures a date and is nonrefundable. Hutchinson (city staff) explained that rental fees paid after reservation are refundable under some circumstances, but the reservation fee would not be returned. City staff said they could allow date changes in some events, and that if the city were under a state of emergency the city would need to consider cancellations because events could not proceed.

Why it matters: the rules create a standard rental process intended to protect city property, ensure public safety and provide clarity for event organizers. Council members asked the staff to clarify specific language about decorations, fire extinguishers and refund cases; staff indicated those items would be clarified in the rental agreement and insurance requirements.

Action and next steps: the council approved the resolution by roll call with no public comment. Staff will finalize the rental agreement language to reflect the clarifications discussed and implement the reservation, insurance and enforcement processes.