Since Oct 10, 2011, Occupy Toledo has maintained a peaceful presence at the park known as Levis Square, in downtown Toledo. There have been no arrests, no police overtime, and occupants have complied with all police requests. Free speech, assembly, and a true democratic process are at the very heart of what this country was founded upon. There is no legitimate reason to disallow tents at this site. The Mayor and Council's refusal to even begin a dialogue with Occupy Toledo is disrespectful and dismissive, of both the people who have maintained the occupation, and of the hundreds of others who have rallied, dropped off donations, or come to a General Assembly to be heard.