Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Public Safety topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Council begins code review for solicitors, considers public 'no‑knock' list and enforcement tools
Summary
Council discussed updating the city's code for itinerant vendors, including time restrictions, a permit and a publicly accessible 'approved solicitors' list plus a citizen‑managed no‑knock registry; police and the city attorney supported enhanced enforcement and a frequent‑violator mechanism.
Councilors asked staff and the city attorney to draft revisions to Blanchard’s itinerant vendor and peddler code that would limit permitted solicitation hours, require permits and include a public page listing approved solicitors. The mayor suggested a community‑maintained "no‑knock" list so residents can opt out; staff said the city clerk could maintain such a list tied to solicitor permit records.
The city attorney described constitutional boundaries and a model that includes a no‑knock registry and permit requirements. "The cities can set the rules for the game, they just can't stop," the attorney said, outlining a process where citizens sign on to a no‑knock list and permit holders are informed. A city police officer recommended a frequent‑violator list and enhanced penalties for repeat offenders. Council directed staff to draft ordinance language for future consideration and to include public outreach on enforcement and how residents should respond to unpermitted solicitors.
