Plans for outdoor entertainment venue | Local News

County Manager Bill Williams described the desired result this way:

A location with a “great big city feel,” he said. “Something you don’t see too often in small towns.”

The site would be contained within a fence and locked up when not in use to protect it against vandalism, trespassing or other illegal activities. Amenities that would be provided within include a permanent stage with electricity available for performances, various forms of seating, attractive amenities, including public art, and ample shade, according to the project’s stated goals and objectives.

There would be restrooms that could accommodate up to six people at a time — three men and women. Williams noted that not having any public restrooms available during major community events “puts pressure on the surrounding businesses.”

Also part of the plan would be some improvements to the immediate surrounding area in landscaping and safety measures implemented to make it less likely that pedestrians are struck by oncoming traffic.

There will be adequate parking for visitors and the existing courthouse parking lot immediately to the west of that location would also provide a large amount of additional room for vehicles to park.

The county doesn’t charge for use of the courthouse lawn, but reserves the right of refusal if the space is already reserved or the event isn’t appropriate, Williams said.

For the lawn, which is home to numerous annual local events, there could be…