PORTLAND, Ore. -- Opponents crowded the streets outside a Portland homeless shelter protesting a high-profile vote expected Thursday on a new sidewalk ordinance for Portland.
Protesters gathered outside Sisters of the Road Cafe to advocate for the homeless on the same day that the Portland City Council was expected to vote on a new "sit-lie" ordinance.
Under the new rules, obstructing a sidewalk could carry a $250 penalty. Opponents called the city's newest attempt to regulate sidewalks "classist." But the city said it was unlikely fines would be issued.
Protesters worried about how police would enforce the concept of clearing a six-to-ten foot wide space for passersby. The group also said it was it's unfair not to let people take a rest right next to buildings or take shelter under awnings.
Previously, Sisters of the Road participated with the mayor trying to help craft the new rules, but the group worried about how police stings might unfairly target the homeless.
(KGW Reporter Randy Neves contributed to this report)
