ITEM TITLE:
Title
Consider approving an ordinance pertaining to Business, amending Section 7-32-1-3203 and Section 7-32-1-3204, Division 7-32-1, Article 7-32, Chapter 7 of Lawton City Code, 2015, by prohibiting certain scrap items from sale or purchase, unless by an exempted seller; removing the misdemeanor penalty; allowing for floor amendments; providing for severability; and establishing an effective date.
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INITIATOR: Chief James Smith, Police Department
STAFF INFORMATION SOURCE: Assistant Chief Eric Carter, Police Department
BACKGROUND: During the City Council meeting on February 13, 2024, the issue of copper theft in Lawton was extensively deliberated. Subsequently, the Council instructed the staff to draft an ordinance aimed at mitigating this problem. The proposed ordinance prohibits scrap metal dealers from purchasing copper in any form, copper/aluminum material mixtures, and, automotive catalytic converters, unless they are an exempted seller as defined in City Code. This ordinance also removes the misdemeanor penalty for providing false information, and renumbers the section as needed.
EXHIBIT: Ord 24-
KEY ISSUES: N/A
FUNDING SOURCE: N/A
STAFF RECOMMENDED COUNCIL ACTION: Approve an ordinance pertaining to Business, amending Section 7-32-1, Article 7-32, Chapter 7 of Lawton City Code by prohibiting certain scrap items from sale or purchase, unless exempt; removing the misdemeanor penalty; allowing for floor amendments, providing for severability and establishing an effective date.