Ordinance on Public Gatherings

KIMT is taking a closer look at what this means for activists in Pine Island

And i'm george mallet.

First tonight ?

"* in a time whn activists have been taking to the streets to protest police brutality ?

"* a new city ordinance is putting a hurdle in their path.

Pine island city council passed an ordinance this week regulating large groups.

If you want to have a gathering of more than 25 people... you'll need to fill out a permit application.

If your gathering has more than 200 people... you'll need to file an application to the city administrator at least 45 days in advance.

Council member kelly leibold (lie?

"* bold) said ?

"* as black lives matter protests happen in the city ?

"* she wants to make sure their voices are still represented.

Xxx "this ordinance aside, i strive to be a council member that represents all members of our community regardless of the color of their skin.

I feel bipoc members of this community have been historically underrepresen ted.

I have been striving to make sure those voices are heard at the council table."

Kimt news 3 reached out to the city of pine island for a statement.

The city says in part: "the city will now have the ability to collect a $50 application fee to help with costs that may be associated with an assembly.

During past assemblies, the city has provided additional resources which were not budgeted for, and this provides a way for the city to recoup