Commissioners allow 'Rock for the Animals' with half-fee waiver, require insurance

Debbie Brooks, president of All About the Animals Coalition, asked the Bannock County Board of Commissioners for permission to hold a fundraiser called “Rock for the Animals” on Aug. 1 to benefit five local rescue groups, including Bannock County Friends, Smitten Kitten and Bannock Humane Society. Brooks said the all-day event would feature bands, a pet gala with a $10-per-family admission idea, raffle items and carnival-style games.

The board approved the event but declined to waive the full fee, voting instead to waive half the rental charge so the coalition would owe $350. A commissioner who moved the approval said the permit must include verification of insurance and HR approval and gave the county director authority to withhold a contract if coverage or safety requirements were insufficient.

Commissioners raised logistical concerns during discussion, including crowd control, noise, cleanup and the lack of on-site power. One commissioner noted the county does not supply snow fence for isolating entryways and suggested the organizers provide their own. Brooks said the organizers already clean up after events and are arranging insurance.

The board did not record a detailed roll-call tally in the public audio; several commissioners responded "aye" to the motion. The approval includes the conditions that organizers secure required insurance and receive director or HR sign-off before the county will finalize the contract.

The permit decision is limited to the county property request and contract terms; permittees remain responsible for event cleanup and compliance with any additional county rules or risk-management conditions.