Residents voice concerns against Conroe City Council proposal requiring fees to hold protests
CONROE, Texas (KTRK) -- Some residents in Montgomery County say they feel their constitutional rights could be taken away by the city if a proposal in Conroe becomes reality. If it happens, groups of demonstrators would have to pay a hefty fee to hold a large gathering on public property in the city of Conroe.
Holding protests outside in public places has always been part of the fabric of America with freedom of speech and freedom to peaceably assemble guaranteed in the First Amendment.
However, those opposed to the proposal say they feel it'll be much harder to exercise that right if the city of Conroe moves forward with the plan from the police chief.
"The city has been wonderful. They really been have, up until now," said Vicki Scott, a Montgomery Country resident.
According to Thursday's city council agenda, council was supposed to discuss an item that would require anyone holding a large gathering of 25 or more people, such as a demonstration or protest on public property, to pay a $500 application fee filed with the police chief for a permit.
"I think it's absurd. It's absolutely absurd," Scott said.
Plus, according to the agenda, there would be a minimum deposit of $500.
On top of those fees, protesters would have show proof they have a liability insurance policy of at least half a million dollars.
Those opposed to the idea say they feel putting a dollar amount on holding a protest defeats the purpose of having one
"I think if you're paying for free speech, it's not free," Laurie McSpadden, a Conroe resident, said.
As to why the city is considering this proposal, ABC13 reached out to the mayor, council and the police department but didn't receive a response to our request for comment.
The plan was supposed to be discussed at Thursday's city council meeting, but a spokesperson says the item has since been deferred. An exact timeline for discussion hasn't been given, although some residents showed up Thursday night to speak out against it.
"It feels like we're taking steps backwards instead of forwards. You know. We're regressing," McSpadden said.
