Workers can enter building to train, stock shelves

Some aldermen and clinic opponents are questioning why staff members are working inside Planned Parenthood, if their temporary occupancy permit expired Monday.

Numerous residents, including attorney Vincent Tessitore, are demanding the city enforce its occupancy laws.

Tessitore said he sent a second letter to the city on Thursday requesting the building be vacated. "This is unlawful," he said. "In every other instance that this happens, (the city) has enforced its ordinances."

Steve Trombley, CEO and president of Planned Parenthood, said his staff is training and unpacking.

City spokesman Carie Anne Ergo said clinic leaders are allowed inside under a "prestock" approval given by the city's building department on Aug. 10.

Such approval, which won't expire "at this time," allows businesses to pre-stock shelves so they're ready to open, she said. It's what allowed people inside before the clinic was given a temporary occupancy permit on Sept. 16.

A letter was sent to clinic officials Thursday from the city warning them any activity must be limited to training and equipment setup.

City inspectors have been sent out to ensure the clinic is not seeing patients, Ergo said.