Vancouver city council is softening controversial Olympic bylaws that it resisted amending in midsummer.
"I don't retract any of the comments I made," said Vision Vancouver Coun. Geoff Meggs. "I'm glad it's stronger now and I'm sure that those who were critical of the thing in July will be glad."
Meggs was among the majority that voted for a Jan. 1-March 31 ban on advertising and newspaper distribution in bubble zones near Olympic venues and live sites.
Amendments, which go to council Dec. 3, reduce the bubble zones and cut time restrictions. Newspapers with less than 70 per cent advertising will be allowed.
COPE Coun. Ellen Woods- worth, who opposed the bylaw, said the changes were forced by "a strong outcry from the public."
B.C. Civil Liberties Association executive director David Eby said prohibition on commercial leaflets could still harm charities.
