KALAMAZOO (WKZO AM/FM) — A group called Occupy Kalamazoo is staging protests in Bronson Park opposing changes in park rules that they say will discriminate against the homeless, but it’s not clear why they are protesting.
The rules would actually decriminalize a number of park violations that are currently misdemeanors, making them subject to a civil citation instead. They also clarify and define other park rules.
City Attorney Clyde Robinson specifically denies it’s an attack on the homeless population that uses Bronson Park. He says the changes are designed to make use of the parks more enjoyable for everyone.
The City Attorney’s office has been systematically revising and clarify city ordinances to decriminalize behaviors that can stain a person’s record and keep them from getting a job or entering a college later in life at the request of the City Commission.
The protestors plan to demonstrate and hold several events in and around the park leading up to Monday Night’s regularly scheduled meeting at 7pm.
