Wessels Proposes Protest Ordinance

After witnessing several days of sometimes violent protests that included property damage nationwide, Monterey Vice Mayor Starlett Wessels proposed an ordinance Monday night to organize protests.

“I know Monterey is a small place but it’s our job as a board to protect our town, our citizens, and the businesses,” Wessels said.

Wessels said the ordinance is designed to protect the community and the peaceful protesters, while also giving the city recourse to remove protesters. Under the proposed ordinance, a permit to protest would be required. A boundary for the protests would be setup. Wessels suggested the Farmers Market because boundaries would be easy to enforce. She said the facility also has electricity and restrooms.

Protesters would also need to provide proof of event liability insurance. Any paid protesters would need to register with police and pay a registration fee.

Wessels said she is not concerned about Monterey residents protesting. Rather, Wessels said she worries about “busloads” of outsiders potentially coming into town causing damage. Alderman Nathan Walker said he disagreed with the concept. He said the potential exists to draw undue attention to the community.

“The laws are already in place,” Walker said. “If they damage property, if they don’t follow the rules, or are blocking traffic, if they are impeding businesses, those are already enforceable offenses.”

Mayor Bill Wiggins said the town attorney would need to weigh in on the constitutional ramifications of such an ordinance.

“I’m thinking about article one, about the peaceful assembly,” Wiggins said. “I prefer to have an attorney to take us by the hand.”

“I do not want to infringe on anyone’s constitutional rights,” Wessels said. “But my concern is the paid protesters that they are bringing in.”

The board voted 5-2 to pass the ordinance on to the Buildings and Grounds committee for evaluation.