(A) Statement of purpose and intent.
(1) Settlements of unhoused individuals (also known as ENCAMPMENTS) in public spaces are a growing social, public safety, and environmental concern faced by cities of all sizes, including La Crescent. The dynamics of homelessness, both short and longer term, are extremely complex reflecting a wide range of contributing factors. It is recognized that, like many cities, La Crescent's housing stock and price dynamics can create an affordability challenge, causing unstable housing for some.
(2) In La Crescent and elsewhere, encampments have attracted and involved people experiencing significant addiction and mental health challenges, as well as individuals who seek to take advantage of those staying in encampments. Among other problems, encampments tend to result in accumulation of garbage and human waste, which creates a health hazard and can contaminate the ground and water. Other typical hazards include drug paraphernalia (i.e., needles) and unchecked fires associated with cooking, often involving explosive fuels. Encampments are also prone to a heightened physical safety and property risk for those in the encampments as well as those who may be present in the same area. Encampments also tend to cause damage or disruption to the soil and forested areas.
(3) Many in the community, including public and private entities, have responded to the needs of those experiencing housing instability, providing significant levels of resources and services.
(4) The city also has an obligation to make best efforts to provide a safe and clean environment for other members of the community who want or need to use public spaces. Access to parks, trails, schools, green spaces, public transportation, and the protection of public utilities and infrastructure is a community good for all.
(5) While many unhoused individuals are able to exist in a space that does not cause public disruption, it is also true that encampments do create significant harms, for both the unhoused individuals as well as members of the public attempting to use the same spaces. Law enforcement personnel, who have had primary responsibility for responding to encampment areas, need to be supported with effective tools to address these complex situations. Encampments and unsheltered individuals who create the most social harm cannot be ignored or just moved from one space to the next.
(B) Definitions. The following words, terms, and phrases shall have the meanings ascribed to them in this section, except where the context clearly indicates a different meaning.
CITY. The City of La Crescent, Minnesota.
CAMP OR CAMPING. To set up, or to remain in or at a campsite, including the storage of personal belongings or camping materials.
CAMPSITE. Any place where any tent, lean-to, shack, or other structure, any vehicle or part thereof, or any bedding, sleeping bag, or other sleeping matter, or any stove or fire is placed, established, or maintained for the purpose of establishing or maintaining a temporary place to live.
CAMPING MATERIALS. Includes, but is not limited to, tents, tarps, umbrellas, metal sheeting, pallets, canopies, hammock, hunting blind, boxes, huts, temporary shelters, or vehicles.
(C) Prohibition.
(1) No person may camp in or upon any city land or right-of-way, unless otherwise specifically authorized by the La Crescent City Council, subject to the enforcement requirements in § 130.99(C).
(2) Any camping or campsite materials or personal property associated with a camping area that is in violation of this section may be removed or cleaned up by the city or its designated contractors.
(Ord. 586, passed 10-14-24)