After public complaints, Palatka moves Lee Hall block party to city facility and tightens safety, noise and parking plans

The Palatka City Commission on June 11 discussed special-event permitting and public concerns about block parties after staff and law enforcement recommended moving a privately organized “End the Violence” event to the Jenkins city facility.

Mr. Cutright said the event’s footprint changed after staff and law enforcement met with the applicant, Lee Hall, and that the new location at Jenkins would place the event in a fenced field with larger parking capacity. Assistant Chief Nukem and police staff outlined public-safety plans: 10 officers assigned to the event, two officers monitoring overflow parking, and temporary flood lighting provided by the applicant with supplemental lighting from the fire department. City staff said they are installing low-voltage walkway lighting on the city dock and will provide a dedicated 20-amp outlet for a visiting boat show.

Because the event sits near residential areas, staff requested an 80-decibel noise variance measured at the property sideline; police noted that 85 dB is a threshold for hearing protection and said staff will seek lower limits when feasible and document decibel levels to create enforceable standards. Staffing, parking and site configuration were discussed at length; staff said overflow could be staged on Napoleon Street and alongside Jenkins with officers monitoring to prevent loitering or unsafe behavior.

Several residents who spoke during public comment urged stricter limits on private block parties after previous incidents involving loud music, heavy marijuana use and public-safety problems. Multiple residents suggested limiting large, street-closing private parties and directing major events to city-owned parks and the riverfront so the city can better manage safety, noise and cleanup. One commenter suggested drafting ordinances that require the city attorney and police input be formalized in permit approvals.

The commission approved the special-event permit actions on consent after discussion and said staff should return with any necessary follow-up to ensure the approved footprint and staffing plans are enforceable.

The commission also approved a permit for a visiting boat show and related dock events after staff said low-voltage walkway lights and a dedicated outlet would address immediate safety and power needs. Staff said they coordinated timing so the boat shows and other riverfront events could coexist without footprint conflict.