HomeMy WebLinkAboutcover memoSecond Reading Ordinance
CITY OF MIAMI
CITY ATTORNEY'S OFFICE
MEMORANDUM
SR.2
TO: Mayor and Members of tl ityConunission
FROM: Alejandro Vilarello, ity; ttorney
ri
DATE: September 3, 20Q
RE: Proposed Ordif a ce . eptem • 11, 2003 City Commission Meeting
Amend Citx ctions related to prohibitions relating to parades and assemblies
(J-03-772)
The attached proposed ordinance has been prepared at the request of the Chief of Police to
authorize certain prohibitions relating to activity at parades and assemblies. The purpose and
intent of this legislation is to establish reasonable time, place and manner restrictions for parades,
demonstrations, rallies and assemblies to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals and
property, while at the same time ensuring the First Amendment rights of those wishing to
associate and to express their views, both individually and collectively.
The City's current parade regulations, which govern parades and assemblies, were enacted
decades ago. Since that time, the statutory and judicial law governing parades, demonstrations,
rallies and assemblies has developed and is significantly different than the law as it existed at the
time of enactment. Further, the manner in which such events are undertaken, and the nature and
level of the activity of those participating in such events, has changed significantly since the
enactment of the current regulations. In recent years, civil unrest and disturbance has occurred at
events held in a number of cities, such as Oakland, Seattle, San Diego, Los Angeles, San
Francisco, Toronto and St. Louis, accompanied in some instances by significant personal injuries
and property damage, including injuries and damage caused by the use of various weapons and
projectiles, including some or all of those specified in this ordinance.
This Ordinance has been transmitted to the Agenda Coordinator for placement as a first
reading ordinance on the September 11 2003 City Commission Agenda.
Attachment
W930:BSS
c: Joe Arriola, City Manager
Priscilla A. Thompson, City Clerk
Elvi G. Alonso, Agenda Coordinator