All articles tagged with #public property
A bronze bust of Olympic gymnast Suni Lee and a large commemorative rock were stolen from Phalen Regional Park in St. Paul, causing sadness among her family and community, as the sculpture celebrated her achievements and Hmong heritage.
Homeless individuals in Los Angeles have constructed an impressive makeshift house with amenities such as a garden, barbecue, and working electricity alongside a freeway. The number of encampments in the area has increased due to the rising homelessness crisis in the city, with mixed reactions from nearby residents. While some are understanding, others express concern about the use of public land and safety hazards. The situation highlights the ongoing housing crisis and affordability issues in Los Angeles.
Florida lawmakers have passed a bill that would ban homeless individuals from camping or sleeping on public property, with designated areas for camping to be approved by the state Department of Children and Families. Supporters argue that the bill will help address the issue of homelessness and make it easier to provide services, while opponents criticize it as a way to simply remove the homeless from public view without addressing the root causes. If signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis, the bill will take effect on October 1.
Florida lawmakers have passed a bill that would ban homeless individuals from sleeping on public property, allowing counties to designate areas for homeless encampments with restrictions on alcohol and drugs. Supporters argue it will help address the issue of homelessness, while opponents criticize it for not addressing the root causes and potential safety concerns within the designated encampments. If signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis, the bill will take effect on October 1.
The former Senate staffer who allegedly filmed a sex tape in a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing room may face legal consequences. Legal expert Jonathan Turley suggests charges of trespassing and improper use of government property could be brought against the 24-year-old former legislative aide. The key factors in determining charges would be whether the unofficial use of the room constituted trespassing and whether the explicit acts were considered "in public." The staffer's alleged payments on Venmo labeled as "Sexual favors" and "Strip dancers" have also been uncovered. Capitol Police are aware of the situation, and the former aide is no longer employed by the Senate.
Residents of Toledo, Iowa are seeking to move a nativity scene back to the city fire station after receiving a letter from the Freedom from Religion Foundation requesting its removal from public property. The wooden display, made by a local resident, was relocated to private ground following the complaint. The move has sparked frustration among residents, with many attending a City Council meeting to voice their concerns. The council will consult with attorneys to explore the possibility of making the display acceptable at the fire station.
The Portland City Council rejected a proposal to allow homeless encampments on public property, with the majority citing health and safety concerns. The plan aimed to pause encampment sweeps and permit sites on all public property except certain locations. The Portland Fire Department estimated a cost of $150,000 over five months if the ordinance had passed, while other departments projected a total cost of $1.2 million. Despite arguments that sweeps don't help people find shelter, the majority deemed the health and safety issues too significant. The meeting sparked strong responses, and chaos erupted when a protester climbed onto the mayor's desk and was subsequently removed by officers.
A Utah man was ordered to remove his Halloween display featuring a pole-dancing skeleton from public property after it went viral and divided the community. The display, which violated city code, featured a skeleton with a purple wig "dancing" on a city stop sign. The man complied with the order and moved the display to his own yard, where residents showed support by donating additional decorations and tips for the homeowner's "dancer fund."
Portland leaders have approved an emergency ordinance banning the use of hard drugs on public property, including substances like fentanyl, heroin, and methamphetamine. However, the measure will require a change in state law to be enacted and enforced. The City Council's decision adds controlled substances to Portland's existing prohibition on public alcohol use, which carries penalties of up to six months in jail or a $500 fine.