LETTER: SLC plaza not owned by church

Editor,

I would like to voice my opinion regarding the 10th Circuit Court’s decision to maintain first amendment rights on Main Street Plaza.

Contrary to the views expressed by your editorial “Main Street Plaza is Private Property,” the land that was formerly a public sidewalk and city street is not unconditionally owned by the Mormon Church. There is an easement on the property that maintains the plaza as a public thoroughfare.

The Court ruled the city cannot establish a “First Amendment-free zone” on this public passageway. Hopefully, the church and city can come up with an agreement to protect Mormons from offensive public behavior in this area. Salt Lake City and the Mormon Church should refrain from doing business, particularly when the church is interested in buying public property.

Benjamin Oakley