Pasted below this article is additional information from David Sanders and who to contact if you wish to speak to the amendment at tomorrow morning's EPC meeting.
There appears to be a difference in interpretation between the Winnipeg Free Press's reporting below that this change would allow cyclists to obtain a parade permit if they so wished vs. the concern that it will be enforced by police as required by any group of 10 or more cyclists (i.e. organized or spontaneous group rides, even a gathering of friends travelling by bike from place to place). The wording of the amendment could more clearly stipulate that it is intended to allow cyclists who wish to apply for a parade permit to do so. (See suggested rewording in attached submission by David Sanders.)
Note that there's a meeting tonight at 7 pm at Mondragon (91 Albert St) to discuss potential response strategies for those who are interested.
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http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/parade-permits-for-cyclists-around-corner-224025101.html
THE City of Winnipeg is poised to change its traffic rules to allow cyclists to obtain a parade permit, but some cyclists are already up in arms.
On Wednesday, council's executive policy committee is considering an amendment to the traffic bylaw that would allow 10 or more bike riders to obtain a parade permit.
Right now, cyclists can't obtain parade permits because it's illegal to ride side-by-side.
"A number of bicycle groups apply for parade permits each year with the intent of operating in a parade fashion with a police escort," reads the report to council.
This amendment, however, has sparked fears police could use the amendment to crack down on groups of cyclists. Winnipeg lawyer David Sanders, who represented members of a Critical Mass ride, issued a statement Sunday warning of $1,000 fines to anyone who rides in a group of 10 or more.
Republished from the Winnipeg Free Press print edition September 17, 2013 A2