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But even the most raucous recent event, the taxi driver protests over Uber, were not violent. Administration declined to comment because this was a private report.

Photo by John Lucas / Edmonton Journal

The new barrier in council chambers will be about 1-1/2 metres high, including a short glass partition on top of a short wall. It will separate councillors and city clerks from the public.

“I’m saddened by it, but it’s a sign of our age,” said Coun. Ben Henderson. “Creating this idea that we’re unsafe, we lock ourselves in cages and we suffer for that. … It seems like a backward step to me.”

Council already has at least one security guard stationed at the front of the chamber at all times.

Coun. Andrew Knack said he gave grudging support to the short wall, simply to support staff who feel unsafe.

Coun. Bryan Anderson said he supported the wall because he doesn’t think it will substantially change the room. If he had his way, he would scrap the metal detectors and bag search.

Coun. Mike Nickel said he opposes the wall, saying it will “destroy” the open and welcoming feel of the room.

“It’s saying we’re afraid of our own public and I’m not,” he said, even though he said he has had three death threats during his career.

Council members are out in the public all the time, he said: “If someone wanted to get Mike Nickel, he wouldn’t get me in council chambers.”

Photo by Ryan Jackson / Ryan Jackson / Edmonton Journal

Two metal detectors will be set up just outside council chambers. They’ll cost about the same as Calgary’s system, which is $100,000 a year. They’ll be portable and can be moved downstairs to sit outside the committee room, too, if needed.