LIBERTY — The question of political activity in Liberty’s public parks was a focal point at Monday night’s Town Board meeting, as residents raised concerns about potential restrictions and their right to gather.

Town Supervisor Frank DeMayo opened the discussion by explaining his recent inquiry into whether new language could be added to the town’s code or park permit forms to limit political activity. After consulting with Kenneth Klein and reviewing legal resources online, DeMayo said the town does not currently have the legal authority to implement such a restriction. “We do have to look out for the public’s safety and welfare, but we can’t officially prohibit that type of activity,” he said.

Instead, DeMayo suggested that item six of the town’s existing park permit, which addresses solicitation, could serve as a framework for regulating certain political activities, even though it does not explicitly mention political solicitation.

During public comment, members of We Are One Sullivan, an Indivisible group in Sullivan County, attended to share their concerns. Ken Wampler asked the board about drafting a local law to amend code subsection 109-11, “Rules of Conduct,” which states that political solicitation, demonstrations and rallies in designated public parks are prohibited.

DeMayo responded that he had spoken with Klein about the proposal and noted that such an amendment “probably isn’t going to fly anyway,” though he added that the board would continue to review the issue.

Despite the supervisor’s comments, members of We Are One Sullivan expressed frustration over the proposed amendment, citing the relocation of their John Lewis celebration from Hanofee Park back in July as a source of concern. Kathie Aberman emphasized the group’s stance, saying, “I vehemently stand against laws which abridge our right to gather peacefully in public spaces. Whether we call it a rally, a protest, or a demonstration, it is protected speech.”

Following public comments, the board moved on to other agenda items, leaving the discussion unresolved but underscoring ongoing tensions between managing public spaces and protecting residents’ rights to political expression.

[Editor’s note: The reporter for this story is the granddaughter of Francis ‘Stretch’ Hanofee, for whom Hanofee Park in Liberty is named after.]