Roswell Inching Closer To Removing 'Profane' Language As Disorderly Conduct

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The city of Roswell is one step closer to allowing residents who tend to use foul language in public to do so without the fear of a disorderly conduct charge.

The Roswell City Council on Monday approved the first reading of an ordinance amendment, which would delete a section that classifies the use of “profane or obscene language in public” as disorderly conduct.

The second reading will be held at the council’s Aug. 10 meeting.

In its resolution declaring the ordinance change, the city notes federal courts have questioned the constitutionality of laws and ordinances that declare the use of profane words to be disorderly.

Council members also approved a temporary moratorium on accepting temporary sign permits in light of a recent U.S. Supreme Court decision; the first reading of a policy establishing where fireworks can be sold in the city; directed the city administrator to sign a contract with Chatfield Contracting, Inc. for repairs to a a stormwater pipe connected to a box culvert under Coleman Road in the amount of $158,521.25; and the first reading to an amendment establishing a 25 MPH school zone, from 280 feet south of Thomas Drive to 570 feet south of Alpine Drive.

The school zone will be in effect from 6:55 a.m. to 7:55 a.m. and 2:05 p.m. to 3:05 p.m. The posted speed limit is 40 MPH. The school zone is for the new elementary school slated to open on Monday, Aug. 10. It will go into effect the same day.

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Photo credit: city of Roswell