The Secret Service and "fear-mongering" media are using "scare tactics" to undermine civil liberties and keep residents away from Downtown during the upcoming G-20 summit, say members of several groups that plan to demonstrate during the gathering of world leaders.

Gathered in the portico of the City-County Building last night, they urged city officials to protect residents from what they called a "federal takeover and militarization of Pittsburgh."

They said thousands of police officers in riot gear and a still undetermined security perimeter for the David L. Lawrence Convention Center and other sites represent the federal government's attempt to frighten residents and quash dissent.

"Pittsburghers have been victimized by scare tactics that make our desire and right to protest seem like a dangerous threat," said Melissa Minnich, of the Thomas Merton Center. "We ask that the city and media respect and support our work."

She was flanked by a handful of people holding posters with messages that read, "Pittsburgh welcomes dissent," "City Council protect our rights," and "Point State Park: yes, military: no."

Their gathering came on the eve of council's plans to discuss legislation that would, among other things, allow the city to spend $16 million on the summit, rent out-of-town police for $9.5 million, and arrest people wearing masks or carrying materials with the intent of foiling police.

Council could vote on the legislation today, but it might postpone two protest-related bills until it can hold a public hearing.

Demonstrators last night said the shutdown of schools, public transportation, businesses and roads during the two-day summit will disrupt the daily lives of many residents who feel too confused or scared to come Downtown.

The city should welcome demonstrators and protesters the same way it has welcomed world leaders, they said.

"The G-20 represents politics that put corporate profits first and the need of people last," said Al Hart, an official with United Electrical Workers. "People who work Downtown are being told to go away. ... Pittsburgh welcomes the world to a city of buildings, but no people."

They also demanded more openness from the federal government about its security plans, saying it should work in tandem with city officials, who, they said, have been mostly cooperative in hearing their concerns.

Some groups said they are still awaiting protest permits from the city. Among them is the Thomas Merton Center, which plans a march from Oakland to Downtown on Sept. 25, said the center's Peter Shell.

"We need to see that permit in our hands, soon," he said.