ANOKA, Minn. — Sidewalk chalk is now legal again in the city of Anoka.

Four years ago, the city council passed an ordinance banning displays on public property. At the time, city officials said the ordinance that restricted flags, art, signs and more was a way to prevent the destruction of city buildings. It was approved in the aftermath of George Floyd protests and turmoil over COVID-19 lockdowns.

The ordinance, in turn, made chalk drawing on sidewalks illegal. The move sparked criticism from across the country over free speech concerns.

This month, the council passed an amendment allowing for water-soluble chalk drawings once again.

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