Capt. Michelle Lee said it will be “business as usual” for the Kent Police Department tomorrow, with the exception of a few extra officers for each shift to help handle the St. Patrick’s Day activities.

“Patrol tactics will be more active downtown because of bars opening earlier and it being on a Saturday this year,” she said. “It’s a crapshoot as far as what takes place, but it will be a little busier than usual.”

Lee said the number of officers patrolling downtown will vary shift to shift depending on what other activities are going on at the time. They are expecting an increase in house parties, domestic disputes and weather-related traffic calls, she said.

Last year St. Patrick’s Day was on a Friday, and Lee said there were 18 arrests and 73 calls for service. There will not be any DUI Checkpoints in Kent or officers from other departments helping patrol the city, Lee said.

“These are usual concerns that we deal with everyday,” she said. “St. Patty’s Day doesn’t change things.”

Ray’s Place in downtown Kent will be giving out party favors and serving Irish food, beer and whiskey beginning at 11 a.m., said manager Steven Harris. Although they are expecting a big crowd, there will be no extra security, he said.

“We are pretty geared up for a very big day,” he said.

Glory Days Water Street Tavern in downtown Kent will be opening at 7 a.m. to feature omelets and mimosas prepared by one of the chefs from the Bistro on Main restaurant owner Mike Beder said. The bar will also host a bagpiper during the afternoon, he said.

Beder said they are also expecting a big crowd, and there will be three to four bouncers during the busiest times at night for extra security.

Although the cold weather could affect some activities, Lee said the police department’s biggest concern is drunk driving.

“Intoxicated people and bad weather are not a good mix,” she said. “We don’t want to see anyone get injured or have accidents because of a celebration.”

Contact public affairs reporter Erica Crist at [email protected].