Government Refuses to Disclose Eateries Encroaching on Public Land

The government has declined to provide a list of eateries that have encroached on public land, claiming it lacks the authority to do so. Nationalist Party MP Albert Buttigieg requested this information from the Lands Minister, but was told that the Lands Authority is not authorized to publish details about private operators.

Buttigieg called the response unacceptable, arguing that the public has a right to know which land is public. He has filed a Freedom of Information request in an effort to obtain the information. The issue of eateries encroaching on public land and using tables and chairs has become a contentious topic, with the Ombudsman criticizing delays by authorities in resolving enforcement issues. Activists have also protested against what they refer to as "illegal land grabs" by eateries.

According to Buttigieg, the temporary relaxation of rules during the pandemic has now become permanent. The Shaker Heights Planning Commission has unanimously recommended forwarding a new zoning approach for off-campus student housing on Fairmount Circle. The measure will now go through three separate readings by City Council, as well as another public hearing with 20 days advance notice.

The proposed "overlay district" would focus on one-and-a-half apartment buildings already vacated by non-students, allowing John Carroll University to continue $7 million in renovations and have the 55 units ready for the fall semester.

The government's refusal to disclose the list of eateries encroaching on public land has raised concerns about transparency and accountability. Critics argue that the public has a right to know how public spaces are being used and whether private businesses are operating within legal boundaries.

In the ongoing debate, Buttigieg and other advocates are pushing for greater transparency and enforcement of regulations related to the use of public land. They argue that allowing eateries to permanently encroach on public spaces sets a dangerous precedent and undermines the public's right to access and enjoy these areas .

The Lands Minister's office has not provided further comment on the matter, citing the ongoing Freedom of Information request. The outcome of that request and any potential disclosure of the list of eateries in question remains to be seen.

Key Takeaways

• Govt declines to disclose list of eateries encroaching on public land, citing lack of authority.
• MP Buttigieg files FOI request to obtain the information, citing public's right to know.
• Shaker Heights proposes zoning change to allow off-campus student housing on Fairmount Circle.
• Activists protest "illegal land grabs" by eateries, claiming public's right to access is undermined.
• Outcome of FOI request and potential disclosure of eatery list remains to be seen.