SET A PUBLIC HEARING for the proposed amendment of Chapter 40, Code of Ordinances, to extend the provisions of the Civility Ordinance to the Near Northside - DISTRICT H - CISNEROS

SUGGESTED HEARING DATE - WEDNESDAY - 9:00 A.M. - OCTOBER 5, 2016

The Civility Ordinance prohibits certain conduct on sidewalks (lying, sitting or deposing personal possessions) during most daylight hours.  It is currently applicable to the Central Business District, Midtown, Old Sixth Ward, Avondale, Hyde Park and East Downtown Management District.  The ordinance contains provisions for a citizen petition procedure to extend the restrictions to other areas of the City.

Residents and business owners in the Near Northside have submitted a petition to the City Secretary to extend the Civility Ordinance to their neighborhood.  In compliance with the procedures set forth in Section 40-353 of the Code of Ordinances, the Legal and Planning and Development Departments have certified that the petition meets required criteria.  Further, the Houston Police Department has prepared a report indicating the existence of the kind of conduct that is prohibited under the Civility Ordinance and incidents of criminal misconduct in the Near Northside area.