WASHINGTON – As the Occupy D.C. Movement continues in its third month, the cost to local taxpayers continues to climb. The federal government is going to be asked to pick up the tab.
The Occupy protesters at McPherson Square and Freedom Plaza have cost D.C. taxpayers more than $1.6 million.
Most of that is for police coverage, traffic control, trash removal and emergency medical care.
D.C. Mayor Vincent Gray says since the two encampments are on federal land and the National Park Service allows them to stay, the federal govenrment should help cover the costs.
Gray tells News Channel 8 he’ll officially request the federal government reimburse the District.
The District is routinely reimbursed for costs incurred by hosting protests, marches and rallies.
Earlier this month, Republican U.S. Rep. Darrell Issa wrote a letter asking Interior Secretary Ken Salazar to explain why Occupy D.C. protesters had been allowed to camp in McPherson Square. Camping is prohibited on National Park Service property, but the park service has said a "24-hour vigil" is allowed.
WTOP’s Mark Segraves contributed to this story. Follow Mark and WTOP on Twitter.
(Copyright 2011 by WTOP and The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
