The proposed ordinance seeks to prevent individuals from camping or maintaining campsites on public property, such as streets, sidewalks, and parks, unless officially sanctioned during emergencies when shelter is unavailable. Definitions provided for terms like “camp,” “campsite,” and “emergency shelter space” aimed to establish a clear framework for enforcement. The ordinance also proposed strict guidelines for the removal of camping materials once authorization lapses or if individuals refuse shelter offers. The police department chief emphasized that the ordinance was designed with multiple safeguards to ensure that enforcement would only occur after all other forms of assistance were offered.

Public comments voiced opposition to the ordinance, arguing it could criminalize homelessness and exacerbate the issue. Critics cited examples from other cities where similar measures had led to increased displacement and negative outcomes for vulnerable populations. School committee member Jonathan Guzman and Michelle Feny, among others, contended that the ordinance would not solve homelessness but rather punish those already struggling. They emphasized the need for increased investment in shelters and outreach services over punitive measures.

The police chief defended the ordinance, asserting that it was not meant to punish homelessness but to provide law enforcement with an additional tool to manage situations where individuals refuse assistance. The chief stated that public safety and community standards were also a priority, with residents expressing concerns about encampments near schools and other public areas.

The meeting also featured discussions on the broader challenges of homelessness, with council members expressing both empathy for the homeless and frustration over the persistent issues related to public order and safety. Councilors shared personal stories and constituent concerns, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach that addresses both humanitarian needs and community expectations.

In addition to the anti-camping ordinance, the council addressed other matters, including the selection process for school committee candidates and the adoption of a new flood plan map. The selection process for school committee members involved sending the top three candidates from each division to the full council for consideration, reflecting concerns about fairness and transparency in the evaluation process.

The flood plan map, an item of interest due to its potential impact on property designations and insurance requirements, was postponed to a future meeting to allow for further information gathering and community input. The director in charge of the map update sought assistance from regional and state agencies to clarify changes implemented by FEMA and their implications for the city.

Financial matters were also on the agenda, with the council approving a significant allocation of funds for capital improvement projects by the Department of Public Works. These funds aim to address infrastructure needs, including street paving and sidewalk repairs, although discussions highlighted the ongoing challenge of funding such extensive projects given the city’s budget constraints.