Consider action to approve adding Section 34-5 to the Code of Ordinances, Chapter 34 "Miscellaneous Offenses." Consider action to adopt an ordinance amending the Code of Ordinances, Chapter 34 "Miscellaneous Offenses", Article I "In General", adding a new Section 34-5 "Urinating or Defecating in Public."

Staff Report & Agenda Item Details

This item is for consideration of adoption of a proposed City ordinance prohibiting public urination and defecation. The purpose of the ordinance is to establish a clearly defined municipal offense that addresses conduct negatively impacting public health, sanitation, and the quality of life within the community. The proposed ordinance would complement existing state law by providing a more direct enforcement option in situations where the conduct may not meet the statutory elements of Disorderly Conduct under the Texas Penal Code.

This motion is scored as EXPANDS_GOVERNMENT (Impact Weight: 7.1/10). Under the Bastiat Liberty Watchdog Index, measures that increase tax rates or fee schedules, issue new debt or Certificates of Obligation, expand regulatory/zoning restrictions on private land use, or authorize unbudgeted spending expansions reduce an official's Freedom Score when voted YES (and reward dissenting NO votes).