CANTON, Ohio — A Canton resident has filed a lawsuit against the city of Canton and council members, challenging a ban on public speaking at council meetings.

The lawsuit, filed by 30-year-old Daniel Gates in Stark County Common Pleas Court, claims the recent restrictions of Public Speaks violate state and constitutional laws.

"It's just part of our democracy and the republic— that we are a part of— for us to be able to come and speak whether they like it or not," Gates said. "I hope to get Public Speaks back up and running. That's the whole goal of it."

Gates filed a pro se civil lawsuit, meaning he doesn't have attorney representation.

He named Canton Mayor William Sherer II, Law Director Jason Reese and the Canton council members as defendants.

Gates argues the decision made in Nov

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