Oklahoma County commissioners discuss regulating use of county property for free speech
Oklahoma County commissioners met Wednesday to discuss regulating the use of county property for free speech activities. This, after several days of protests near the county courthouse.
The new resolution on the Oklahoma County commissioners' agenda would contain and limit the manner and location of protests on any county property. It was requested by county clerk Rick Warren.
The resolution says the right of free speech is affirmed but also raises concern about letting the function of the court and county government go on. It says free speech activates may not be conducted within 25 feet of an entrance or exit during operation hours.
The resolution also says free speech activities may not use any amplified sounds, like a bullhorn or drums for example, during courthouse operating hours.
The resolution calls for designating a small strip of area at the annex courthouse as a protest zone as well as areas on the east, south and west side of the original courthouse as a free speech area.
Protesters were seen as the meeting took place. Rick Warren, Oklahoma County Court Clerk, released a statement after Wednesday’s Oklahoma County Board of County Commissioners meeting:
“I am FOR free speech. I would fight and even die for that right. Anyone who knows me knows that.”
“I was asked to place the item on the agenda for the Sheriff and I did so. My sole focus is to ensure delivery of fair and impartial due process in the upcoming jury term.
"However, I’ve been assured by a leader of the group of citizens who showed up today that it is not now nor was it ever the group’s intent to disrupt jury trials.”
“As a result, I have withdrawn my request for this resolution. I trust that the good citizens of Oklahoma County will respect the process to ensure the delivery of due process to all.”