Archived News Release from 2009

For Immediate Release

City Council to Consider Ordinance for Courthouse Square Activities

Redwood City, CA - December 4, 2009 - Redwood City’s beautiful Courthouse Square has become the true centerpiece of our Downtown, and the “living room” of the entire community. With hundreds of concerts, plays, festivals, art shows, movies, and family events, along with restaurants, shops, services, and much more, Courthouse Square is also a very desirable regional destination. On December 14, the City Council of Redwood City will hold a public hearing and consider an ordinance that will provide a framework for ensuring the enjoyment, convenience, and safety of everyone who utilizes this wonderful community asset.

The purpose of an ordinance related to Courthouse Square is to help consistently determine when an event permit is required, to support the management of this facility, and to ensure public safety at Courthouse Square.

Interested members of the public are invited to attend and participate in this discussion at the Council Meeting on Monday, December 14, 2009, at 7 pm at City Hall, 1017 Middlefield Road. The draft ordinance and staff report will be available online by Friday, December 11.

The draft ordinance will contain language prohibiting specific activities such as smoking and skateboarding, and will provide necessary enforcement tools to address unacceptable and/or inappropriate behaviors. The ordinance will also establish permit requirements for events at Courthouse Square in order to protect the public's health, safety, and welfare.

Administrative Guidelines in the ordinance will describe the policies and procedures for permitted events at Courthouse Square including the application process, financial and legal responsibilities, police department and fire department requirements, and other aspects. They will also outline the fees associated with event permitting at Courthouse Square, including application fees, permit fees, and cleaning and damage deposits.

As the managers of Courthouse Square, Redwood City is most interested ensuring that the community have an enjoyable and safe experience, every time they join their friends and neighbors Downtown at Courthouse Square.

Visit Redwood City’s award-winning website at www.redwoodcity.org for information about the City and its services, the community, recreation programs, education, and local business. Subscribe to Redwood City’s electronic newsletter or other City documents at www.redwoodcity.org/egov.

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Contact:
Lori Popovich
Redwood City Redevelopment Agency
650-780-7263