The public hearing, September 7th, regarding the NO LOITERING ordinance was well attended.  The City Council approved the NO LOITERING ordinance at the September 14, 2004 meeting as follows:

 

It shall be unlawful for any person to loiter or congregate upon the streets, sidewalks or alleys of the City in the vicinity of any public place to the annoyance or disturbance of any person or persons.  Any number of persons who shall congregate upon such public places and shall refuse to disperse when requested to do so by any member of the police force or by any person annoyed thereby shall be subject to a general penalty fine as specified by Ordinance 1-4-1 (9-2004)

 

The intent and purpose of this ordinance is to protect the business owners, residents and their property.   The support of this ordinance was overwhelming at the public hearing and last night’s city council meeting.     

 

The City recognizes that it is a custom of the young adults and school age children to congregate on the North side of the square.  At the police department discretion, the area on the south side of Jefferson Street between Lafayette and Washington streets can be used for this purpose.  If the gathering becomes unruly, loud, too large or leaves excessive litter, the gathering will be disbursed by the police department per the NO LOITERING ordinance.    

 

Other exceptions to this ordinance are special events such as victory celebrations for school related functions and city approved festivals and shows. 

 

Bill Glaze, Mayor

City of Mt Pulaski