ROCHESTER MAYOR TOM RICHARDS AND OCCUPY ROCHESTER FIND COMMON GROUND

City officials and Occupy Rochester folks have come to an agreement so
"occupiers" can encamp overnight. photo: Ove Overmyer/Voice Reporter

Rochester, N.Y.-- Moments ago, organizers of the Occupy Rochester protests at Washington Square Park say the group has agreed to conditions set forth by the city and will now be able to legally camp overnight.

"We have an agreement! We can now occupy 24/7! No more arrests needed!" the group posted on its official Twitter account. About 75 Occupy supporters were on hand at the park tonight.

City spokesman Gary Walker confirmed the agreement, and Mayor Thomas Richards and Police Chief James Sheppard arrived at the park around 6 p.m. today. The agreement was signed by Richards and members of Occupy Rochester.

The agreement expires Jan. 11, 2012 -- about two months from today and beyond the coming holidays.

Among the conditions are that the south portion of the park can be occupied during all hours but the right for everyone to use the park must be respected. There can be no barriers or obstructions placed in the park. The park must be kept clean. No weapons, fireworks, alcoholic beverages, glass bottles or containers will be allowed.

photo: Ove Overmyer
The Voice Reporter

Any campers younger than 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Mayor Tom Richards previously had said that while he appreciates the demonstrators’ right to protest, he would not allow an encampment. The reason he had cited was concern that, ultimately, the protest would result in a clash with police. Rochester is one of the few cities — perhaps the only city — in New York state that has not allowed overnight encampments.

However, after careful consideration and some nudging from the NYCLU, labor officials and city residents, Richards and Occupy Rochester folks came to an understanding much to the benefit of everyone concerned. To date, about 50 have been arrested at the Washington Square Park site. The daily activities can be only described as extremely organized and peaceful.