LPD Chief offers tips for those attending this weekend's music festival

With the fourth annual Linton Music Festival right around the corner, Linton Police Chief Troy Jerrell is issuing a reminder regarding two of the city's ordinances.

The city has an ordinance banning all animals -- except services animals -- from Humphreys Park during public events.

According to the ordinance, any animal brought to the public parks during festivals, special events or advertised events where more than 20 people are present, will be deemed a public nuisance.

Persons violating the ordinance can be fined no less than $50 and no more than $250, according to the ordinance.

The ordinance also states that animals can be confiscated, and the person redeeming the animal is responsible for fines, lodging fees, kennel fees, administrative fees and court costs. They will also be responsible for medical bills, such as testing, shots, vaccinations and parasite remedies.

The other ordinance pertaining to the Music Fest establishes hours for Humphreys Park.

According to the ordinance, the park will be closed from midnight to 4 a.m. with little exception. One exception is for persons in the park to carry out activities related to special events calendared by the city. Jerrell said those working the festival will be allowed in the park after hours.

Also look for extra police officers on patrol during the festival, he noted.

"We have extra manpower scheduled to work Friday and Saturday the two biggest nights of the Music Fest and we have reserves scheduled as well," Jerrell said.

Although he foresees no parking issues, he does request that festival-goers use common courtesy while entering and exiting the event.

"They're (Music Festival Committee) going to have volunteers out there parking vehicles and they will be wearing the designated shirts. People could really help us and them out if they would get there in plenty of time and let these people park them," Jerrell advised.

In past years, problems at the annual fest have been minimum.

"We had a few minor incidents last year, nothing major. The one thing they're (Music Festival Committee) requesting is no golf carts inside the park. This creates a concern for the pedestrians," he explained.

Other than that, Jerrell hopes the festival offers an enjoyable time for those in attendance.

"Have a good time. Enjoy yourselves and be courteous to volunteers. Everything should go very smoothly," he added.

The fourth annual Music Fest will kick-off Friday at 5:30 p.m. and run through Sunday. More than 30 musical acts are scheduled to blast Humphreys Park with music of all genres during the event.

For more information on the fest check out www.lintonmusicfest.com