(A) The streets within the city have been the site of continuing illegal sideshows, speed contests, and exhibitions of speed over several years despite law enforcement efforts to prevent and abate these illegal events through the enforcement of existing traffic laws. Illegal motor vehicle sideshows, speed contests and exhibitions of speed are fueled by the activities of organizers, advertisers, and spectators. Often, such events generate profit for their organizers and advertisers. The events are a public nuisance emitting air pollution, including noxious odors, and noise pollution. The events also create an environment in which illegal activities can fester. Therefore, the intent and purpose of this chapter is to discourage organization and advertising of illegal motor vehicle sideshows, speed contests, and exhibitions of speed in the city. It also aims to discourage the presence of spectators at these events.
(B) This chapter targets a clear, limited population and gives proper notice to individuals as to which activities are lawful and which activities are unlawful. The quantity of people exposed to the dangers associated with participating in and being a spectator at illegal sideshows, street races, and exhibitions of speed is likely to be decreased by discouraging organizers, advertisers, and spectators from being involved with such events in the city.
(C) This chapter is not intended to interfere with or inhibit any exercise of constitutionally protected rights of freedom of press and freedom of speech such as (but not limited to) peaceful expressions of political or religious opinions, not involving offensive personal conduct. The City Council finds and declares that advertisements for illegal events such as street racing, motor vehicle sideshows, speed contests, and exhibitions of speed are not legally protected speech.
(D) This chapter is intended to complement state laws governing the regulation of speed contests, exhibitions of speed, and sideshows. This chapter is not intended to preempt state laws governing the regulation of illegal motor vehicle sideshows, speed contests, and exhibitions of speed events.
(Ord. 2239-C-S, passed 7-23-2024)