CARMEL — The mayor of Carmel is taking steps to protect the Hamilton County city against the civil unrest seen in Indianapolis and across the country in recent days.
Monday, Mayor Jim Brainard issued a disaster emergency declaration that enables the Hamilton County city to take quick action should there be a threat of civil unrest.
In a statement, Brainard explained his reasoning for the declaration:
“While we appreciate the freedom we have to peacefully assemble and voice our opinions, I will not allow these public sessions to become unlawful or endanger the lives and property of our community," Brianard said. "Indiana law allows for mayors to declare a disaster, which includes the ‘imminent threat of widespread or severe damage, injury, or loss of life or property resulting from a human act.’ I am taking this action now to ensure that I have the legal authority and ability to take further action if necessary to protect this community. Given the threats that we have seen on social media, there may arise the need to limit access to certain areas of the city in order to keep our community safe and declaring a disaster emergency will allow me to do so,” said Mayor Jim Brainard.
What Brainard is trying to avoid is the looting and shootings Indianapolis experienced Friday and Saturday.
The mayor says he and the Carmel Police Department are closely monitoring the messaging on social media in order to protect the community effectively.
“This is one more tool we have that we can use to maintain order so that those who want to peacefully share their opinions can do so, while making sure that we are protecting our citizens, business owners, employees, visitors and public and private property in the community," Brainard said.
"The disaster emergency declaration will allow me to institute a local travel advisory restricting travel and activities in an area due to a hazardous situation.” added Brainard.
