The City of Loogootee says it’s “deeply disappointed” in a federal court ruling that struck down its Special Event Ordinance as unconstitutional. U.S. District Judge Richard Young issued a permanent injunction recently, ordering the city to allow PrideFest 2025 to return to the downtown Public Square on September 6, which is this Saturday.
City officials say the ordinance—adopted in 2024 and amended earlier this year—was meant to apply equally to all groups requesting city property, while protecting Loogootee from liability. They say the measure directed events to either the City Park or the new Green Space, with additional streets available if more room was needed.
The city argues PrideFest could be held at the Green Space and says organizers refused that option, insisting on the Square. Officials contend the issue is not about free speech, but about fairness and safety for residents and businesses. Loogootee plans to appeal the ruling.
