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City manager proposes rules on storage of personal property in public spaces
Summary
City Manager Mark Ziegler presented proposed changes to chapter 8.70 to address excessive storage of personal property on public property, defining thresholds (items too large to fit a 55‑gallon trash can / 7 cubic feet), hazards and obstruction criteria, and recommending an education‑first enforcement approach.
City Manager Mark Ziegler outlined proposed amendments to the code that would clarify when personal property in public spaces becomes a public‑nuisance concern and how staff would respond.
Ziegler said the draft clarifies three elements: (1) an "excessive" size or volume threshold — items too large to fit in a 55‑gallon trash can or items exceeding 7 cubic feet — or bulky items such as sheds, non‑operational bicycles and mattresses; (2) conditions that create health, fire or sanitation hazards (biohazard, rodent infestation, accumulated waste); and (3) interference with rights‑of‑way, building entrances or emergency access routes. Staff described the approach as information, education and voluntary compliance with enforcement as a last resort.
Ziegler said staff can move the draft ordinance to the action agenda for further council consideration and that the approach mirrors the city's existing public‑camping enforcement protocol, emphasizing outreach before removal or penalties.
