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Council debates downtown exclusion ordinance as tool to curb repeat illegal behavior
Summary
At a April 28 work session, Estrella city staff and the police chief described a proposed exclusion ordinance meant to remove repeat offenders from a downtown zone while preserving access to services; councilors pressed for safeguards, tiers and data-driven review before adoption.
City Manager Spence and Police Chief Kelly presented a draft ordinance (Ordinance No. 25) at the Estrella City Council work session on April 28 that would authorize the city to exclude people from a defined downtown area if they repeatedly violate listed laws. Spence framed the proposal as a tool ‘‘to enforce the current standards that we have’’ without changing state law or the camping ordinance, and invited council feedback before any formal hearing.
Chief Kelly said exclusions would be limited in scope and would include exceptions for lawful activities such as seeking medical care, court appearances or employment. ‘‘So if you violate a current law in the designated area, you could be excluded and there’s a whole list of exceptions that allow you to come back in,’’ Kelly said. Council members repeatedly pressed staff on who would issue exclusions, what appeal rights would exist, and whether the city can reasonably enforce such a measure given gaps in county or state prosecution.
Councilors also discussed complementary safeguards proposed by Councilor Mazzarella, including mandatory referral to shelter or services before exclusion, documentation requirements for officers, an accessible appeal/variance process, independent review and a sunset or pilot-review clause to measure outcomes. City Manager Spence said staff would return with multiple options on scope, appeal pathways and oversight for formal consideration.
