Boynton Beach Enacts Ordinance Restricting Recording of City Staff and Police

In a move aimed at protecting city employees and elected officials from harassment, the Boynton Beach City Commission has approved a new ordinance limiting where the public can record their activities. The measure, which passed with a 3-2 vote on June 16, prohibits recording in certain areas such as municipal lobbies and reception areas if it is deemed disruptive or exposes confidential information.

City Attorney Shawna Lamb cited 19 incidents of harassment against city staff and officials in the past three months, including profane voice messages, vulgar emails, and even death threats. The new law allows the city manager to remove individuals from city properties if they are not conducting legitimate business, and provides for warnings, trespass notices, and potential arrest for those who refuse to stop recording.

However, the ordinance also makes clear that individuals cannot be removed from city properties based on their viewpoints, and that mere observation or recording is not considered a disruption. The city will install signs explaining the recording limits, and the law does not restrict recording at public meetings such as City Commission meetings.

Similar laws have been enacted in nearby North Palm Beach and Palm Beach Gardens, with officials citing the need to protect municipal employees from harassment. The new ordinance has sparked debate, with some commissioners expressing concerns about its potential impact on free speech and transparency.

As the city begins to implement the new law, residents and visitors will need to be aware of the restrictions and guidelines for recording in city spaces.