Sparta police chief: ‘Handle business’ when planning parties in city

Chief Walker says a reminder Tuesday came after he received an unapproved party flyer.

SPARTA, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Sparta Police Chief Tommie Walker is clarifying that a reminder Tuesday about city event permits was not meant to cancel homecoming activities, but to ensure public safety and compliance with local ordinances.

In a Facebook Live video Tuesday, Walker said his earlier post was a result of an unapproved party advertisement.

“Last night, around 9:30, 10 o’clock, I received a poster, a notice, that a party was going to take effect,” he said. “This was particular for the party that was supposed to be happening on Powelton (Avenue) in the City of Sparta. Let’s get that straight. That’s why the post was made.”

Walker said the ordinance requires anyone planning a parade, demonstration or public gathering to apply for a permit at least two weeks before the event, with approval from the mayor and city council.

“Who can approve it? The council and the mayor. They’re the only ones that can approve it,” he said.

He said the goal is to keep the community safe and allow time for proper staffing and coordination.

“I just can’t come up two, three days before and say, ‘Hey, I need five or six more guys to work to make sure the city is covered,'” he said. “It don’t work that way. That’s why they ask for two weeks.”

Walker said he supports residents gathering responsibly.

“Yes, we want you to have a good time,” he said. “It’s fine for you to have a pull-up party or a throwback party, but make sure you go through the right protocol to get the approval.”

He said the intent of the post “wasn’t to cancel out parties or to stop people from enjoying themselves,” but to give notice about safety and scheduling requirements.

“You can party,” he said. “You can have a good time, but handle business.”

Hancock Central High School confirmed Tuesday that its homecoming parade is permitted and will proceed as scheduled.

“Hancock Central High School applied for its parade permit months ago and it was approved,” the school said in a post. “Our parade will go on as planned. Thank you to the Bulldogs who reached out to ensure that the parade is still on.”

The homecoming parade is set for Friday at 4 p.m., beginning at the J.D. Walls Recreation Center and ending at the American Legion. Lineup starts at 3 p.m. The Bulldogs will host Glascock County that night at 7:30.

Walker said he wants residents to celebrate responsibly.

“Have a good time,” he said. “Enjoy yourself, but most of all, please, and I say please, be safe.”