Valparaiso commissioners approve permit for May courthouse rally by NWI Activists

The Regular Meeting of the Board of Commissioners for Porter County, Indiana, held on April 22, 2025, addressed several key issues, primarily focusing on the request for a permit related to a planned protest event.

The meeting began with Deb McLeod introducing Lisa Kaffenberger, a leader of the NWI Activists, who sought a permit for a rally scheduled for May 1 at the Courthouse Square. This event is part of a national movement known as "50 States, 50 Protests, 1 Day," coinciding with Law Day celebrations. Kaffenberger expressed challenges in aligning the timing of their protests with the commissioners' meeting schedule, noting that national announcements for protests often come with short notice.

The discussion highlighted the necessity of permits for public gatherings, as explained by the county attorney, Scott McClure. He clarified that local governments have the authority to regulate the time, place, and manner of protests to ensure public safety and order. The commissioners emphasized the importance of permits to manage safety concerns, especially given the potential for counter-protests and the need to protect both participants and the general public.

Concerns were raised regarding the financial implications of frequent protests on local law enforcement budgets, as additional staffing is required to ensure safety during these events. Sheriff Fafner and other officials noted the importance of communication with protest organizers to anticipate the number of attendees and necessary resources.

The commissioners deliberated on the challenges posed by the current permit application process, particularly the requirement for a seven-day notice before meetings. They acknowledged the difficulties faced by activists in obtaining timely permits and discussed potential solutions, including designating a commissioner to handle urgent requests.

Ultimately, the board approved the permit for the May 1 rally on the south side of the courthouse from 12 PM to 2 PM, with the understanding that the organizers would ensure the event does not interfere with courthouse operations. The meeting concluded with a commitment to improve communication and coordination between the county and protest organizers to facilitate future events while maintaining public safety.