Norwich events org claims rights on a public use gazebo

The Norwich Events Organization announced their Foxwoods sponsored fireworks and an auction at the Gazebo at Howard T. Brown park. In the first place, the park gazebo is a public space... They have no right to use it and restrict use by the citizens of Norwich - tax paying or not. The fact is, when confronted with this information on the Event Facebook post, the "marketing genius" representing this org, responded in a rude manner to a local questioning the validity of private use. The resident, is correct! Norwich Events Org is not right - in so many ways. This really boiled our blood to see an organization taking blood money and our public space, defending their actions and the rude comment made to a poster.

Joseph Hansen posted:

What gives anyone the right to rent out a public gazebo it's my tax dollars that maintain that gazebo how is it that I can't sit on it when I want to because you're going to rent it out for a firework display that should be illegal

Norwich Events Organization -CT:

we are not a City department, we are a nonprofit that applies to the city for use of the park for a private event that we invite the Citizens of Norwich to for free. The Fireworks cost $45,000 a year plus other sundry costs. If you would like to donate to the fireworks we would be happy to not have to raise funds.

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wow- just wow on the rude response!

Mr. Hansen is absolutely correct. What gives the Norwich Events Organization the right. There is no right to rent out or reserve this public space. So let's break this down. 1. Norwich Events Organization announces an auction for use of a public space. You can rent the lakeside or group pavilion at Mohegan Park but not this gazebo. Regardless of the claim to apply for use of the park for a private event, this absolutely is a public space. https://www.norwichct.org/368/Facility-Rentals Other Facilities In addition to the Lakeside Pavilion and Group Pavilion facilities, the public may also visit and use the gazebo at Howard T. Brown Memorial Park, Mohegan Park Center, or the Norwich Veterans Memorial Rose Garden. If you are planning an event on a City owned property, please read the Event Planning Guide and contact the City Manager’s office as early as possible to determine if your event has met all necessary requirements. There is no charge to use these facilities, however it is recommended that patrons wishing to use them also contact Public Works at (860) 823-3798 in advance to ensure no other events are planned. These three facilities are public spaces, and as such, the general public is allowed on the grounds at all times that they are open.

https://norwich.town.news/g/norwich-ct/n/263350/norwich-events-organization-tries-rob-locals-public-space-fireworks-gazebo