CLEARFIELD – Prior to the committee meetings for Clearfield Borough Council Thursday, the council heard from Christy Fulton, Democratic chairwoman for the first ward of the borough.
Fulton had a couple questions for the council in regards to the peaceful protests that took place in downtown Clearfield on June 5.
She asked first if the borough knew why downtown businesses closed at 3 p.m. that day prior to the protesting.
Borough Operations Manager Leslie Stott said that the borough did not have any knowledge prior that the businesses were planning to close and that it was at the discretion of the businesses.
Council President Lew Duttry added that not all of the downtown businesses closed at that time.
Fulton then asked if the borough was made aware of, or had they approved the activation of the Second Amendment Sanctuary group to provide security at the protest, and if yes, “under what authority does this armed militia operate?”
Stott said the borough was not involved in the activities of the Second Amendment Sanctuary group and was unaware they were intending to be present at the event.
Under the police report, Chief Vincent McGinnis reminds residents that Woodland Road is under construction and traffic is restricted. He said drivers are not paying attention to the signs
Stott added that the project, while frustrating for motorists now, is bringing much benefit to the community, including new storm drains, a new waterline and a rebuilt road through the state Department of Transportation.
She added that the borough doesn’t want to have the police patrol and enforce the signage in the area, but if drivers refuse to cooperate, the borough will not have a choice.
Residents are also reminded to keep right of ways clear, to not blow grass clippings into the streets and also to keep their dogs leashed when outside.
Grass clippings clog the storm water system and also create slippery conditions when wet.
Dogs are required to be on leads when outside and unable to cross into neighbors’ property. One council member noted that he has recently been chased by dogs while out walking and jogging.