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Public hearing held on proposed charter change to prior‑written‑notice liability; resident raises scooter‑obstruction concern
Summary
The council held a public hearing on a proposed local law to revise prior‑written‑notice liability rules following a recent court decision. A resident asked whether the change would address liability for shared micromobility scooters left on sidewalks.
The council opened a public hearing on a proposed amendment to the city charter's prior written notice provisions — language that governs municipal liability for hazardous conditions on streets, sidewalks and other public spaces — and invited public comment. The hearing was noticed on March 27, 2025.
A resident, Vince Malfitano of Your Place, said he was concerned about unattended shared scooters left on sidewalks and asked whether the proposed charter change would clarify homeowner or property‑owner liability for injuries caused by such devices. "How does your legislation address the hazard that you have created by allowing people to leave these scooters anywhere they want and exposing homeowners…to liability?" he asked.
The public hearing closed with no further speakers; councilors did not take action during the meeting. Staff noted the city is reviewing charter language in light of a December 2, 2024 Court of Appeals decision that altered the legal landscape for prior written notice claims. The proposed local law is available for public inspection at the city clerk’s office and online, staff said.
Council members did not adopt any change at the committee session; the hearing record will be part of the public record while staff and counsel prepare recommended language or next steps for a future meeting.
