Lincoln County weighs updating 1996 petition-circulator restrictions after complaints of aggressive signature gathering

Commission members raised concerns that groups collecting signatures near courthouse entrances have become aggressive and are approaching employees and visitors too closely. The board reviewed the 1996 rule that limits petitioning to perimeter sidewalks and common areas and discussed whether it remains appropriate in an internet-era public setting.

Captain Dan Newton of the Sheriff’s Office said corrections officers and security have fielded multiple complaints and captured video of aggressive behavior. "They are being very aggressive," he said, adding that the complaints came from employees and the public. Commissioners discussed the legal constraints for restricting First Amendment activity—time, place and manner restrictions must be content neutral, narrowly tailored to serve a significant government interest and preserve ample alternative channels of communication.

Several board members suggested designating a wider corner area off the approach sidewalk where circulators could place a table and chairs (keeping them off pedestrian routes and limiting aggressive approaches). The board decided to refer the matter to the building and grounds committee and asked Captain Newton and staff to recommend a specific off-sidewalk location and draft language clarifying allowable conduct and notice for petitioners.

What happens next: building and grounds staff and the Sheriff’s Office will propose a defined location and recommended language for the board’s consideration; the county clerk’s office suggested printing and handing a clear notice to circulators to inform them of acceptable conduct while on courthouse property.