Town to consider amending graphic images bylaw

By John Watson Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

A public delegation at the Sept. 20, regular meeting of Strathmore town council, raised concerns regarding the recently established Community Standards Bylaw 13-05, regarding the distribution of flyers depicting graphic images.

The bylaw was passed by council July 26, following complaints from residents describing a significant influx in the delivery of flyers featuring graphic images delivered to local doorsteps.

As written in the bylaw, flyers and materials that are graphic in nature are still allowed to be delivered, but must be done so in opaque packaging which features a name and return address of the sender.

Sam Parsons, who spoke to the town, explained he believes the bylaw only protects folks who are either offended by pro-life/anti-abortion views, or who may have experienced trauma associated with a miscarriage. 

“There are so many other offensive materials that are not addressed in this bylaw, not just pinpointing the pro-life group,” he said. “It is also discouraging to their freedom of speech by forcing them to reveal their name and address, making them a target of aggression for all those who hate pro-life.”

Parson added his main concern with the bylaw is with the fines associated with violating the bylaw. As it was passed, violations may include delivery of a graphic image either not within a sealed envelope, without a legible warning, or without identifying the sender and their address. The fines for each are posted at a minimum of $500, with a specified penalty of $1,000. 

It was suggested to council that instead of identifying the sender of graphic images on each envelope to residents, distributors of graphic content could instead register with the town, so their identity would be known there, but not to any recipients. 

Council discussed at length the idea to bring a potential bylaw amendment to the regular meeting scheduled for Oct. 18. 

The amendment, should it continue, may see the minimum fine lowered from $500 to as low as $100 for offenders.

Additionally, council would discuss the idea to change the definition of “graphic images” as defined in the bylaw, to mean a visual image showing or purporting to show a dismembered human fetus.

Coun. Richard Wegener said it was important to note the bylaw does not take away anyone’s right to send or communicate this type of flyer or material, there are simply restrictions that are in place to protect audiences who do not wish to observe graphic images. 

Town of Strathmore council voted to consider amending Bylaw 13-05 during the Oct. 18 regular meeting of council, 4-2, thus the matter will return before them then.