Martin County Board of County Commissioners Passes Ordinances Protecting the Community
STUART, Fla (June 7, 2022) – At the June 7 meeting, the Board adopted two ordinances through the public hearing process, adding further protections for our community. The County has a substantial interest in maintaining the quality of life and protecting the health, safety and welfare of residents and visitors.
Restrictions on Sexual Offenders and Sexual Predators
The Board was asked to consider the adoption of an ordinance by the Martin County Sheriff, requiring residential and other restrictions on sexual offenders and sexual predators. The Board adopted the ordinance that will take effect 90 days from June 7. The ordinance prohibits sexual offenders from:
- residing within 2,500 feet of a public or private kindergarten, elementary, middle or secondary (high) school or child care facility
- knowingly accessing County and municipal parks when children under sixteen years of age are present, with an exception for an offender who is the parent or legal guardian of a child present in the park
- accessing child care facilities, with an exception for an offender picking up or dropping off his or her child at the facility and the facility is supervising
- knowingly being within 300 feet of any child safety zone – schools, child care facilities, parks and school bus stops when children under sixteen years of age are present
Prohibition of the Sale of Rabbits, Dogs and Cats at Pet Stores
With Board direction, staff drafted language amending Martin County code to prohibit the sale of dogs and cats by pet stores. Martin County has now joined counties throughout Florida protecting animals and residents. By legislating these protections, the path forward for adoptions is clear, as pet stores may still collaborate with animal shelters and/or private nonprofit organizations to show adoptable rabbits, dogs and cats.
To hear public input and the Board’s discussion on these topics, watch the June 7 meeting on the County’sYouTube Channel. Residents are encouraged to visit www.martin.fl.us, Martin County’s online resource for services, news and information, and connect with us on social media – follow us on Facebook, Twitter andInstagram.
