Residents, volunteers press council to preserve public park space for weekly Food Not Bombsfeedings

Several residents, volunteers and organizers addressed the council during public comment on Aug. 12 to defend Food Not Bombs’ weekly food shares at Riverview Park and to urge the city not to restrict public feedings that serve people experiencing hunger and homelessness.

Organizers described the weekly Sunday gatherings as community meals that include children and families. “Our shares are for everyone, including kids and families,” said Marcia Gaver, who identified herself as the organizer and a long‑time West Melbourne resident. She said children attend regularly and called the gatherings a “safe and loving atmosphere” for families in need.

Other speakers recounted personal experience with food insecurity and argued the events are protected expressive conduct. “Every human being in this city is a member of the community,” said Chris Bancroft, who said his name was on the permits for the shares and described the gatherings as “community events, with people from all over the local community coming together to break bread.”

Speakers representing Food Not Bombs urged the council to ensure policies recognize the needs of children and families who rely on public feedings. City staff and council members said they heard the presentations and emphasized they did not intend to ban feedings; Mayor Alfred said the group had a right to be in the park and the city would protect legal rights while ensuring compliance with rules. Council members asked staff to review park policies and report back; staff noted separate work is underway to review parks protocols and any relevant ordinance changes would be brought to council.

The council took no immediate regulatory action at the meeting; it directed staff and the city attorney to continue reviewing park rules and to bring the topic back for formal consideration so that the city can balance public safety, park access and First Amendment considerations.