Eden Prairie may be looking into developing its own ordinance related to public assembly.

Eden Prairie City Manager Scott Neal brought up the issue during the July 15 City Council meeting. He noted that a public assembly ordinance puts a reasonable restriction on large public gatherings such as a protest. He said it does create a bit of stress among those that respond to public assemblies (primarily police) when an event pops up and the city doesn’t know it is going to occur.

A public assembly ordinance would require a permit for groups over a certain size.

 “But more importantly what the permit requires is an exchange of information,” said Neal.

He said the city needs some advance notice to provide adequate police at the site, not only for protection of the property owners but for those involved in the public assembly.

Council members seemed to think it was a good idea, but had one concern.

Council Member Sherry Butcher said it’s a good idea, but wondered how it would impact things like a block party. She wondered how people would know they need a permit.

Staff will likely look into the details and report back to the council at a future meeting.