PARIS — The Board of Selectmen is considering changes to its non-standard use of public roads and property form to allow annual events to go ahead without filling out the application.
Board Chairman Bob Kirchherr floated some language he believed could clarify the ambiguous distinction between “standard” and “non-standard” use.
The form was drawn up by the board two years ago, about the same time that a controversy over ATV use of town roads was raging.
Until earlier this year, however, the form was only used four times — twice by members of the X-Tra Mile ATV Club. In the same time frame, numerous parades and special events were held on town roads and property without organizers filling out the form.
The uneven application of the form prompted claims of discrimination on the part of X-Tra Mile members.
The town office has since adopted a strict policy of requiring anyone requesting to use town roads and property to fill out the form.
During its meeting Aug. 12, Kirchherr told fellow selectmen that an amendment to the form could provide some clarity between what was considered “standard” and “non-standard.”
“I think the intent of this was to look at events that were unusual, out of the ordinary, unique, maybe a one-time or two-time occurrence,” Kirchherr said.
According to Kirchherr’s proposed amendment, “non-standard use” is defined as an event or activity that does not occur on a regular basis, including annually.
Standard events, according to the amendment, include the high school homecoming parade, the Memorial Day Parade, Christmas Parade and the Moore Park Art Show, among others, as well as any event or activity scheduled in the town’s calendar.
The board did not vote on Kirchherr’s suggestions at the meeting. It is expected to consider the amended language at its next meeting Aug. 26.
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