A group already given permission to host a four-day Civil War-themed event at Nash Farm Park in April will not be allowed to use simulated cannon fire and gunfire during a reenactment.
The Henry County Board of Commissioners voted on the matter March 19 and the 3-3 result meant the request failed. County ordinances require commission approval for such activities, similar to when July 4 event organizers want to use fireworks. Organizers of the Civil War event said the move constitutes a violation of their contract and that county staff never mentioned the need for commission approval during a preliminary meeting.
The three commissioners who voted against the request, all black Democrats, said in email communications between commissioners and county staff that the event promotes “hate” and county policies should be changed so they cannot be allowed in the future.
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