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Oregon City approves first reading of downtown civil‑exclusion ordinance with emergency‑use language
Summary
The commission approved first reading of Ordinance 25‑1016 to create a downtown civil exclusion zone (code section 9.36) with a 30‑day initial exclusion and a 90‑day repeat exclusion and added the phrase "In emergency situations" to limit external law‑enforcement authorization; the first reading passed unanimously and second reading is set for Dec. 3.
Chief Davis presented Ordinance 25‑1016, a staff‑draft amendment to the Oregon City Municipal Code to create a civil exclusion zone in the downtown core (new section 9.36). Staff said the proposal follows the city’s park‑exclusion practice and other cities’ models, and that the ordinance would define prohibited behaviors that may result in a temporary exclusion, establish a fair notice and appeal process, and set enforcement and variance procedures.
Key provisions discussed by staff and commissioners included: 1) a typical 30‑day exclusion for an initial finding with a 90‑day exclusion for repeat conduct within two years; 2) removal of camping as a prohibited act (camping itself is protected), while other criminal conduct could still trigger exclusion; 3) an appeals and variance process administered by the city manager to allow access for essential services (medical, social services, court appearances, employment, etc.); and 4) quarantine‑style geographic boundaries for the downtown core and inclusion of the grand stairs and elevator area.
Commissioners debated a staff‑proposed sentence that would allow the chief of police to authorize law‑enforcement personnel not employed by the city to enforce the ordinance. Commissioner concerns about potential misuse led to an amendment adding the phrase "In emergency situations" to section 9.36.040 so that outside officers would be authorized only in limited, planned mutual‑aid or emergency events.
Motion and vote: A motion to approve the first reading of Ordinance 25‑1016 with the insertion "In emergency situations" in section 9.36.040 passed by roll call: Commissioner Scott Wilson — Aye; Commissioner Mike Mitchell — Aye; Commissioner Rocky Smith — Aye; Mayor Denise McGriff — Aye. The second reading is scheduled for Dec. 3.
What's next: City staff will return for the second reading with the amended language; Chief Davis said staff will track exclusion usage data and present appropriate reporting back to the commission over time.
