Title
Discussion of the Referral Concerning the City’s Pedestrian Interference Ordinance
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
This item has been recently referred from Council to the General Government Committee for discussion.
City Manager Recommendation:
Consider the referral related to the City’s Pedestrian Interference Ordinance. Make no changes to the current ordinance.
Report
Issue:
Whether the Committee should recommend changes to the current pedestrian interference ordinance.
Staff Contact:
Steve Hall, City Manager, (360) 753-8370
Mark Barber, City Attorney, (360)753-8223
Ronnie Roberts, Police Chief, (360)753-8147
Presenter(s):
Sam Costello, Olympia Police Lieutenant
Rocio Ferguson, City Prosecutor
Background and Analysis:
The current pedestrian interference ordinance is a vital tool for managing public space and pedestrian access in the downtown core. Downtown vitality depends on a walkable, comfortable pedestrian access. City staff will be prepared to share with the Committee how the tool is currently used, and why it is effective to manage public spaces for everyone and not allow any person to privatize public sidewalks.
Prior to 2012, the City ordinance was confusing and unenforceable. It attempted to create a ”walking lane with 6 foot access for pedestrian travel.” In 2012, the ordinance was changed so that sitting, lying or blocking any part of the public sidewalk was not allowed. Staff will describe the pitfalls of the former approach.
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
Many interested groups in the downtown.
Options:
1. Do not recommend changes to the current ordinance.
2. Recommend changes.
Financial Impact:
Unknown
Attachments:
Referral
Ordinance 6456 - December 2006
Ordinance 6461 - February 2007