City moves to strengthen Safe Public Spaces bylaw

Penticton is moving to make all public spaces free from racism and discriminatory harassment by updating its Safe Public Spaces Bylaw, first introduced three years ago.

Blatant displays of racism, disorderly conduct, public drug use, and other inappropriate behavior could soon result in fines under the revised bylaw, discussed for the first time at Tuesday’s regular council meeting.

Julie Czeck, general manager of public safety and partnerships, and Deanne Burleigh, bylaw services manager, presented details about the proposed changes.

The move follows a February 2024 presentation from South Okanagan Immigrant and Community Services (SOICS), which asked council to support anti-racism initiatives and create an anti-harassment bylaw.

“At

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