PUEBLO, CO — The Pueblo City Council’s scheduled vote on a proposed “no sit or lie” ordinance has been delayed, pushing the decision to the next council meeting on April 28th. The ordinance, which would make it illegal to sit or lie down on sidewalks in certain areas of Pueblo, including the downtown business district, has sparked debate among community members, local business owners, and city officials.
The Pueblo Police Department has expressed support for the ordinance, citing concerns over public safety. Police believe that individuals lying or sleeping on sidewalks can create hazardous situations, particularly in high-traffic areas.
Vince Gagliano, owner of Gagliano’s Italian Market & Deli, is among those who back the ordinance. Gagliano, whose family-owned business has been a staple in the Pueblo community for over 105 years, says the ordinance could help improve the atmosphere around his store. For the past five years, Gagliano has dealt with frequent loitering outside his establishment, including in the back alley.
“We’ve been dealing with it for years. Something needs to be done,” Gagliano said. His store, known for its Italian meats, pastries, and signature dishes, has been impacted by individuals sitting or lying near the sidewalk, which he says creates an unwelcoming environment for customers. Gagliano added that surveillance footage from cameras around his business shows numerous instances of people congregating outside, leading to concerns about safety and the image of the area.
Though business owners like Gagliano have voiced support for the measure, others in the community have raised concerns about its potential impact on people experiencing homelessness. Critics argue that the ordinance could disproportionately target vulnerable populations without offering sufficient support or alternatives.
As the debate continues, the Pueblo City Council has not yet decided whether the ordinance will move forward. The next council meeting on April 28th will be pivotal, as city leaders and community members come together to discuss the broader implications of the proposed law.
The ordinance remains a point of contention, with supporters and opponents alike waiting to see how the city will balance public safety, economic interests, and the rights of those who have nowhere else to go.
