Alamance County issued the following announcement on Aug. 20.
Alamance County Government begin implementing the Facility Use Policy for the Historic Courthouse at 5:00 p.m. Friday, August 21, 2020. These guidelines were developed to further support and encourage the free expression of ideas within a safe and protected environment.
Due to the location of the Historic Courthouse and the logistical multi-agency challenges it represents, a permitting process is now required for large, organized gatherings. The permit will allow groups to reserve space on the Historic Courthouse grounds exclusively for their use. This process will guarantee the organized gathering will have priority and access to the areas surrounding the courthouse while allowing time for government agencies to plan and coordinate a strategy to ensure the freedom of expression of those attending.
While large, organized gatherings require notice to the Alamance County Sheriff’s Office, small, spontaneous gatherings do not require a permit. However, without a permit, a gathering will not have exclusive rights to use the Historic Courthouse grounds.
Alamance County Government and the Alamance Sheriff’s Office are committed to supporting and protecting the rights of freedom of expression for all, and the Facility Use Policy for the Historic Courthouse will provide a safe space to exercise those rights.
To view the Facility Use Policy for the Historic Courthouse or the Facility Reservation Permit Application please visit https://www.alamance-nc.com/sheriff/forms/.
Original source can be found here.