WORKSHOP ITEM Brian Podany, Safety Services Manager/Chief of Police
Title
PROTESTING IN RESIDENTIAL AREAS
Background
Recently multiple cities have enacted ordinances regulating targeted picketing in residential neighborhoods. This subject was given increased attention over the summer after multiple high profile protests in residential neighborhoods. This has not been presented previously to the City Council for consideration nor has the City Attorney drafted potential legislation. According to the 2020-2023 Strategic Plan, a strength of the City of Blaine is our residential growth. Additionally, an opportunity identified in the SWOT Analysis was our vibrant community. Maintaining peaceful residential neighborhoods is an important piece of this. Historical legal perspective and analysis will be provided to the council for discussion.
One example of such an ordinance is attached for reference.
Recommendation
Staff is requesting guidance from council on whether to proceed with researching and drafting proposed legislation in conjunction with the City Attorney regulating targeted picketing in residential neighborhoods.