The following statement was issued by Penticton Mayor Julius Bloomfield at 2:50 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 12:

“Yesterday, council gave first reading to the revised Safe Public Places Bylaw, along with two supporting enforcement bylaws. These updates aim to make our public spaces safer and more inclusive for everyone in Penticton.

“The revised bylaw introduces clear definitions and enforceable standards around public behaviour, including a new prohibition on discriminatory harassment. This change responds directly to concerns raised by South Okanagan Immigrant and Community Services, whose data and stories highlighted the real and harmful impacts of racism and discrimination in our community.

“We’ve heard from residents who feel unsafe or unwelcome in public spaces because of who they are

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