05/05/1980 Meeting - Laserfiche WebLink

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An unidentified man stated that if it were not for free speech, 4It the councilors would not be on the dais, and the people would . not be in the audience. Paul Harrison, 400 East 32nd, stated he was aware of the Kokis case, but feels the issue is the vitality of society which relies on the ability of people to get their ideas across to inform each other of opinions. He thinks the proposed ordinance is flawed in some ways and could not be applied as broadly as would be desirable. Glenn Gordon, 1136 East 20th, stated he is in favor of the ordi- nance because he felt there was a great deal of censorship being put on the Kokis case as to who would be allowed to display their wares and their ideas and who would not. If the mall is to be used to attract people, then it is a matter of censorship if they are denied certain issues or events. At Valley River Center, double standards are being applied. Either everyone should be allowed to speak or no one should, not just a select few. Marylee Cook, 1570 Tyler, No.6, asked if the old common law of use could be put into effect here such as when people use a pri- vate road or path and after common usage it becomes a public road or path. Don Chalmers, 2500 sprinr Boulevard, said it seems that there is a developing situation 0 deflning public and private sectors. These terms are beginning to be redefined. There comes a time when private property takes on such an impact that it becomes quasi-public property. He gave an example of company-owned towns which were required to provide a certain area for free speech. He asked if private individuals could hold private prop- erty which has very large public impact. The right to speak should be allowed in areas that have this kind of impact. Speaking against the ordinance: LaVerne Edwards, 1260,President, stated that she is for free speech but not to the point that it would infringe on the rights of others. She stated that in previous experiences with events at Valley River Center, the guidelines were worked out by both sides., They were not directed from the management. Because there would be a Constitutional problem if the State law would still be in effect, there would be enforcement problems. She would like to suggest having a speakers' bureau in the park blocks downtown. Cynthia Kokis, 2465 Jefferson, commended the council for their contlnued support of free speech. It is important for low-income 5/5/80--6 e e