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Police say DOT declined 'no pedestrians' signs at Walmart island, citing free-speech concerns
Summary
Police reported repeated panhandling and minor fights on the traffic island in front of Walmart; DOT refused a request to place 'no pedestrians' signage, saying attorneys advised it would raise free-speech issues.
Oxford police and the chief updated the select board on recurring panhandling activity on the traffic island in front of Walmart, describing several recent calls involving yelling and scuffles among panhandlers. The chief said DOT reviewed the request to install 'no pedestrians' signs but declined, saying such signs would raise freedom-of-speech concerns after consulting their attorneys. "They won't put signs up because it'll take away from the the vision of that intersection," the chief said, relaying DOT's response.
Board members discussed enforcement limits and nuisance options; the chief said officers can act if panhandlers obstruct traffic or commit crimes and that the district attorney could seek bail conditions barring return to the island if arrests occur. Several board members urged residents to stop giving money at the site as a practical deterrent while staff continue to explore enforcement and signage options.
