FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

BULLHEAD CITY, AZ., September 24, 2023—The United States District Court of Arizona has upheld Bullhead City’s Food Sharing Ordinance in a ruling made on Monday. The court dismissed a lawsuit lodged by Norma Thornton in October 2022 in which she alleged violations of the 14th Amendment and substantive due process.

The validation of the ordinance, which regulates the distribution of prepared meals in public parks, reestablishes the legality of this rule, primarily designed to ensure public health and safety.

“The City of Bullhead City has won its legal battle enabling the regulation of food sharing in city parks,” said Bullhead City Manager Toby Cotter. “The court’s ruling highlights that cities can implement laws while still caring for those in need.”

Honorable Susan M. Brnovich, the Arizona District Judge in charge of the case, ruled in favor of the City declaring that the food sharing ordinance only regulates how charity may be executed in public parks and not the act of charity itself.

“This case was never about Norma Thornton,” remarked Cotter, “but about the City Council establishing rules to govern local parks effectively.”

The court dismissed Thornton’s allegations as without legal support, stating that she failed to prove she was being denied equal protection based on the City’s food sharing ordinance.

In continuance, the court affirmed the legitimacy of the City’s ordinance, adding that it was reasonably related to a legitimate state objective. The main motive for this regulation was to manage food sharing events in the park and protect the public from any health concerns due to unregulated food service.

In conclusion, the Judge granted summary judgment in favor of the Defendant, discharging the case with prejudice, thus barring its retrial.

“We’re relieved to put this matter behind us,” added Cotter, “We’re grateful to the court for validating the City’s right to regulate food safety in our parks. We now eagerly anticipate keeping Bullhead City a welcoming and favorable environment for everyone.”

City officials urge those wishing to contribute to the community to continue their charitable efforts and consider working with local organizations such as the homeless shelter.

As Bullhead City grapples with the complexities of homelessness and public service, the City emphasizes its openness toward community collaboration to ensure an inclusive and safe environment.

Mackenzie Covert, Bullhead City’s Public Information Officer, can be contacted at 928-763-0182 for further information on these matters.

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