New Haven Occupy Issues Demands

The city wants tents and shelters out of Green by March 14.

The city of New Haven wants the Occupy New Haven protesters to remove their tents and belongings from the city Green by noon on Wednesday, but protesters said they're not leaving because city officials haven't met their demands for improved school funding and low-income housing, longer library hours and an end to foreclosures.

"As we have not seen the change we demand in the city, the nation, and the world, we will not be leaving the Green at this time," Occupy New Haven said in a news release.

On Monday, protesters issued a set of demands, that include ending tax exemptions for Yale, replacing all low-income housing that has been removed to make way for luxury living units, immediately ending foreclosures and the "gentrification processes that marginalize the community to create profitable opportunities for corporations at the expense of working-class people."

They are also asking that the city extend library hours and limit salaries for elected and appointed officials to $35,950.

"The City has been respectful of the movement’s message, but it is now time for Occupy New Haven to remove their structures and personal items from Green," city officials said in a news release.

Occupy protesters started protesting in New Haven on Oct. 15.

The city will provide trash bins for protesters to discard items that they wish to get rid of. Items left as of noon on March 14 will be thrown away. 

A lawyer for the protesters said it could take years in court proceedings to evict the occupiers.

City officials told the protesters last week that tents and other structures on the Green will be removed this month.

"Both the City of New Haven and the Proprietors of the Green appreciate the dedication you have brought to the cause of economic justice, and we wish you well as you move forward elsewhere," city officials wrote in a notice handed out.

Anyone wishing help in housing issues should call Columbus House Shelter, Amy Mueller at 203-772-4200, extension 2120.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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