Bangor committee recommends new sidewalk ordinance to replace construction-focused amendment

The Advisory Committee on Racial Equity, Inclusion & Human Rights voted 7-1 to recommend a substitute ordinance to the City Council regarding sidewalk obstructions. The committee decided to leave the existing construction-focused section of the code unchanged and instead propose a new section specifically addressing personal belongings and materials on sidewalks. The new proposal emphasizes support-based engagement and civil enforcement over immediate fines.

Key points

• The committee voted 7-1 to reject the original proposed amendment to Chapter 257 Section 4, which focused on construction purposes.
• Members agreed to recommend a new Section 257-7 that applies to personal belongings and materials rather than construction projects.
• The new proposal includes a requirement for support-based engagement, such as connecting individuals to resources, before civil penalties are imposed.
• City Solicitor David Szewczyk clarified that the existing ordinance applies to objects and materials, not people, to avoid conflict with loitering laws.
• Committee members debated fine amounts, with a recommendation to cap civil penalties at $50 for first violations and $100 for second violations within six months.
• The committee noted that existing city policies for managing personal belongings of unhoused individuals already include 24-hour notice provisions.

Next steps

• The committee will forward the recommended substitute ordinance to the City Council for second reading.
• The City Solicitor's office will review the final language of the proposed Section 257-7 to ensure legal clarity.

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