Committee narrows municipal exemption, creates specific fire and school carve-outs

Committee members rejected a blanket municipal exemption in the device definition and accepted an amendment that spells out a narrower exemption for the Salem Fire Department and public school departments.

Councilor Halapa proposed the specific language: "City, fire and public school departments shall be exempt from this ordinance," and the committee voted to adopt that wording. The change was paired with language allowing temporary exemptions: the city, through the mayor or the fire chief (or their designees), may issue a temporary exemption "prior to the use of equipment for large storms and when required for public safety or within 10 days after an emergency."

Several councilors said the narrower exemption strikes a balance between leading by example and allowing first responders flexibility; others pressed for clearer process details so staff and residents know whom to contact during urgent situations. The committee also agreed to reflect the exemption in the ordinance's definitions so enforcement and outreach guidance align.