Manteca wants to extend its successful anti-loitering effort to public places.

The City Council on Tuesday when they meet at 6 p.m. could take the first step toward doing just that.

They are being asked to consider the prohibition of “trespassing and loitering” at certain public places, including community centers, recreation facilities, and school property.

It builds on the successful anti-loitering effort the city launched for businesses earlier this year.

To avoid the need to have a letter on file with the police department saying they don’t want loitering, — a condition that complies with state law — businesses now have the option of posting signs they can obtain from the city.

Those signs have specific language referencing the municipal code section.

When they are placed in a highly visible location, passing police officers can move to address loitering without having to see if there is a current letter on file. The letters also have to be periodically renewed under state law.

Businesses — especially convenience stores — that are participating have reported a significant drop off in loitering problems.

There are convenience stores, for whatever reason, that aren’t participating. Some without the signs posted are seeing an uptick of loitering by the enforcement being done elsewhere.

The proposed amendment defines public areas throughout the city where loitering will be prohibited, including community centers, recreation facilities, and school property.

This includes, but is not limited to, areas such as the Senior Center and Manteca Park Golf Course.

The goal of the proposed amendment is to provide residents the ability to enjoy Manteca amenities free of disturbance.

No loitering signs will be posted in prohibited areas.

To contact Dennis Wyatt, email dwyatt@mantecabulletin.com