An ordinance calling for severe restrictions on sex offenders living in the city is on the agenda again Monday when the Westbrook City Council faces a second reading of the proposed law.
The meeting begins at 7 p.m., in room 114 of Westbrook High School.
The new ordinance would prevent anyone convicted of a sex crime against someone under the age of 18, and who is required to register as a sex offender for life, “from living, working, entering or loitering within 2,500 feet of the premises of schools, day-care centers, public libraries, day camps, ramp parks, ice rinks, parks, public or private places frequented by minors, commercial property frequented by minors including but not limited to theaters, bowling alleys, sports fields, exercise facilities, dance studios, martial arts studios, fencing centers, places where music instruction is given and any location identified in the city’s drug free safe zones.”
Violators would face a fine of $500 per day of infraction.
“It would be my preference to say they can’t live or work in Westbrook,” said Council President Brendan Rielly. “It’s a crime of opportunity and you have to remove the opportunity.”
Rielly said the recidivism rates for sex offenders are “through the roof,” and “we’re talking about people who prey on kids.”
However, many studies suggest recidivism rates are lower for sex offenders than other criminals, and that a majority of offenses against minors are committed by people known to the victim, such as family members, which the ordinance would not protect against.
Mayor Bruce Chuluda said he is concerned that adopting the ordinance could lead to high costs. The ordinance, if made too restrictive, could face a legal challenge.
“With all the good intentions of protecting the children of this city, it may well end up a financial burden for the taxpayers,” Chuluda said. In addition to court costs, there could be significant increased costs to enforce the ordinance. The city has asked the police department to provide some approximate numbers.
Chuluda said sex offenders have committed heinous crimes, but he struggles with whether it’s a humane thing to ostracize criminals who have served their sentences. Chuluda said he is concerned by the effect of forcing sex offenders to congregate in neighborhoods not covered by the ordinance. Nonetheless, Chuluda said he is disappointed that the state hasn’t been stronger in dealing with the issue, and is hoping that the state Legislature will take the issue up again at its next session.
The council will hear from City Solicitor Bill Dale on the legal ramifications of the ordinance. He will also clarify the difference between a lifetime sex offender registrant and a 10-year registrant.
The councilors could vote to amend the ordinance again, which would require another second reading be held, either later this month or the start of the next.
If the ordinance remains as is, the council will have its final vote on Monday.
The council is also expected to discuss a change in human resource policy to allow city employees to run for elected positions, a move staunchly supported by Rielly and Councilor Michael Foley. The administration, including Chuluda, is vehemently against the change.
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