Protestors arrested in Northampton

NORTHAMPTON, Mass. (WWLP) - Two people were arrested Friday during a street protest against the formation of a Northampton Business Improvement District.

About 40 people participated in a self-described "street-theater event" in opposition to the Northampton B-I-D.

Northampton Police Sergeant Jody Casper told 22News that police arrested two male participants who were blocking traffic.

Both face disorderly conduct charges, but one man was charged with assault and battery on a police officer. No one was hurt.

The protesters tried to put pressure on some business owners.

Anna Jacobson who was part of the protest told 22News, "there's the future of boycott. There's the future of action against you if you choose to continue."

Ira McKinley who organized the protest said, "It's more for the people that are rich and have money. They're not the people that don't have so we want them to give back to the people that don't have."

Meantime, the Northampton City Council granted initial approval to certifying the Business Improvement District March fifth. A second deciding vote could take place next Thursday.