City attorney presents municipal code updates on misdemeanors and drones; councilor Rodley urges careful response to federal immigration activity

Mary Bridget Smith of the city attorney’s office presented a first reading of an ordinance to readopt criminal and traffic statutes into the Springfield Municipal Code to reflect recent legislative changes. Smith said staff also removed an older unmanned‑aircraft provision and explicitly updated code language to state municipal code does not apply to drones because that area is preempted by state and federal law: "our municipal code does not apply to drones." She flagged several state legislative developments for council consideration, including a law that adds menacing a public official to prohibitions on carrying a firearm and draft legislation that would create a specific misdemeanor for threatening or menacing a public official. Smith also noted a recent state Community Safety Act provision that allows local governments to prohibit open carry in public buildings during meetings (which would require an ordinance, signage, and website posting) and offered to return with options if the council wished to pursue that change.

No action was taken on the criminal code item (first reading). Smith said the ordinance will return to the council for consent at a future regular meeting after staff incorporates legislative updates.

Separately under council business, Councilor Rodley delivered a sustained statement acknowledging heightened community fear related to federal immigration enforcement and threats to marginalized groups. Rodley said operational steps have been taken by the city (resource page, police adherence to state sanctuary promise) but urged sustained policy work, mutual aid and careful, non‑performative responses. Rodley said she supports the Oregon Immigrant Justice Package and encouraged constructive coalition work rather than symbolic declarations alone.

These items will return as appropriate for future council consideration and any ordinance adoption.