The Council finds and declares that minors and young adults are meeting in large groups on foot or by automobile in the parking lots of shopping centers, remaining there to use the parking lots for purposes other than what they are intended (i.e., parking while shopping). The numbers entering and exiting, and the milling around of automobiles, creates a safety hazard to pedestrians and drivers alike in the lots and on adjoining streets and prevents or interferes with parking by customers. Litter from broken bottles, empty beverage cans, discarded food wrappers and cigarette butts quickly accumulate on the lot and in the adjoining centers and neighborhoods, creating a health hazard. Nearby yards are trampled, nearby stores and buildings are vandalized. Confrontation and fights develop and younger children and customers of the centers are intimidated and frightened. These problems are particularly difficult to regulate, or prevent. The Council declares that the use of parking lots in shopping centers in this manner is a public nuisance and requires regulation.
(Ord. 590, 1989)