The city of Tullahoma has responded to recent criticism from local businesses that claimed the city rained on their parties by throwing up red tape that hamstrung their public events.

Both organizers for the inaugural Banana Pudding Festival and the ownership of Neon Alley Arcade and Bar have expressed their issues with the city. Most recently the Neon Arcade took the internet to voice its displeasure over red tape.

“We’re so sorry, but due to ongoing issues with the City of Tullahoma, all outdoor events on our property are canceled until further notice and use of our picnic/outdoor area is currently prohibited,” the wrote on social media. “This unfortunately includes our vendor events, karaoke, live music, and other outdoor entertainment for the foreseeable future. We’re incredibly disappointed. We put a lot of time, money, and energy into creating a fun space for the community and had some really exciting things planned for patio season. But we aren’t giving up.

Unlike the Banana Pudding Festival which swore it would never locate in Tullahoma again, Neon Alley is looking to square things with the city so its outdoor space can open.

“We’re continuing to do our best to work with the city in hopes of receiving approval to bring these events and this outdoor space back to Tullahoma in the future,” they wrote on social media, noting the holdup seemed to be permitting for a garage door. “Until then, we hope you’ll continue supporting us indoors with arcade games, pool, food, drinks, Singo, and all the other fun we still have planned.”

According to Community Engagement Officer Lyle Russell from the city of Tullahoma, there are certain rules and permits that are required for everyone. Those rules are not meant as a hindrance but instead are to keep the public safe.

“The City of Tullahoma is committed to supporting local businesses and community events and works with all parties throughout the permitting process to do so,” Russell said. “The city is obligated to apply all applicable laws, codes, and regulations consistently and without bias. All permits, inspections, and certificates of occupancy require documentation that meets state and local standards. These requirements exist to protect the safety of the public and the patrons of every business and event in our community. The city cannot issue permits if these requirements are not met. We remain committed to working through the appropriate processes with all parties to find a path forward that meets all applicable standards.”

As for the Banana Pudding Festival, it is believed permitting issues were what caused the cancellation of the Petting Zoo as organizer Brianna Hale said she was treated rudely by city staff and vowed not to hold anything else, including the Banana Pudding Festival, in Tullahoma again.