Benton Harbor City Commissioners will soon consider an updated parks policy now that it’s been advanced by a committee.

The city Economic Development and Parks Committee this week considered the policy that will stipulate only government related events can be held at Dwight P. Mitchell City Center Park, something that’s generated controversy as it prevents The OutCenter Southwest Michigan from holding its PrideFest there.

The new rules also set fees for renting parts of Hall Park and Yarbrough Park, which will be $150, and Union Park and June Woods Parks, which will be $100. City Commissioner Juanita Henry took issue with that.

“The parks belong to the residents and if they have to pay money to go in there and have a small event, that doesn’t sit well with me,” Henry said.

However, Mayor Pro Tem Duane Seats confirmed with City Manager Alex Little the fees only apply when someone’s reserving a specified area like a pavilion.

“We’re not talking about when people just come out to utilize,” Seats said. “We’re talking about when people just come out to make sure nobody else comes. So, if they’re leasing or renting, that means that I have sole autonomy over that part, a part of it for that time.”

Little said the newly drafted parks policy also helps the city maintain insurance on its various parks so that everyone can be kept safe and the city can avoid liability. The document explains the city manager wants to ensure “that events that are large or have the potential to become large and possibly difficult to control are sited and approved for park locations suitable for the potential size of the events.” That means events deemed not suitable for City Center Park will be referred to Jean Klock Park.

The committee approved the policy and it now goes to the full city commission.