Back to Archives

Austin Parades: Police Fees & Public Safety

Wednesday, June 30, 1971 special called
  • The Austin City Council convened a special meeting to discuss a new Parade Ordinance, aiming to regulate public marches and gatherings.
  • During a public hearing, a citizen voiced strong opposition to the city potentially waiving fees for police protection during marches, arguing for mandatory payments and bonds to cover potential damages.
  • The controversial proposed ordinance, centered on these debated fees and bond requirements, was tabled for further discussion at a future special meeting.

Full Transcript

1,11 =CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS= V MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS Special Meeting June 30, 1971 5:00 P.M. Council Chamber, City Hall The meeting was called to order with Mayor Butler presiding. Roll Call: Present: Counoilmen Dryden, Nichols, Mayor Pro Tern Love, Councilmen Friedman, Handcox, Mayor Butler Absent: Councilman Lebermann Mayor Butler announced that this was a Special Meeting called for the purpose of conducting a public hearing on the proposed Parade Ordinance. Mr. Collins expressed his opposition to the cancelling of payment for police protection during marches. In light of the risks of damage, he felt that marchers should be required to pay for police protection and to put up a bond for damage that might be done. He also suggested that a group of citizens, rather than the Council, be empowered to decide who was permitted to march. Mayor Butler noted that fees presently charged were Imposed uniformly on anyone who marched. He also noted that only the issue of fees was before the Council. Councilman Dryden noted that if a citizens' group were established, there would still be a process of appeal to the Council. Councilman Handcox moved that the Council table the ordinance until the Regular Meeting of July 1, 1971, for a full Council. The motion, seconded by Councilman Dryden, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Dryden, Nichols, Mayor Pro Tern Love, Councilmen •Friedman, Handcox, Mayor Butler Noes: None Absent: Councilman Lebermann Mayor Butler announced that a Special Meeting would be held on Friday, June 2, at 9:00 A.M. to consider the proposed Parade Ordinance. The Council then adjourned. =CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXA! June 30, 1971 APPROVED ATTEST: City Clerk