Health Department investigating event in parking lot near Parkville business

A​n activity last week that is described in an allegation as a “gathering or party” is being investigated by the Platte County Health Department for a possible violation of the health department’s order against large gatherings during the COVID-19 pandemic. The health department has an active order limiting private and public gatherings to no more than 10 people and restrictions on activities

The health department says that on April 27, the department received a report of concern from a Platte County resident that on or around Thursday, April 23, a Parkville restaurant may have hosted a gathering or party in the parking lot of its establishment.

“The description of this gathering, if accurate, is a violation of this department’s extended order dated April 16, 2020,” the health department said in an email to The Landmark.

According to the health department, the resident’s report included an allegation that when the resident contacted local law enforcement, the resident was informed that the event was approved by the City of Parkville government as a private gathering.

“This department’s April 16, 2020 order expressly prohibits such private and public assemblies, and therefore this report, if accurate, is very concerning,”

“This department’s April 16, 2020 order expressly prohibits such private and public assemblies, and therefore this report, if accurate, is very concerning,” the health department said in describing the situation.

“The Platte County Health Department is reaching out to the City of Parkville and ownership and management of Rancho Grande for additional information,” the health department stated in its email.

“As a food establishment licensed by the Platte County Health Department, Rancho Grande – like all licensed food establishments in Platte County outside the City of Kansas City limits–are subject to Platte County Ord. Chapter 230. After its initial investigation, the department will consider if the reported event is a violation of Chapter 230, necessitating an immediate suspension of a permit under 230.110(A)(5), or other corrective action,” the health department message stated.