PHOENIX — The Phoenix City Council passed an ordinance Wednesday banning encampments near schools and public parks.
In a 8-0 vote, the council approved a policy that declares it unlawful to camp within 500 feet of any local school, day care facility, transitional living shelter or park. A violation of the ordinance could result in getting charged with a Class 3 misdemeanor and a fine of $100.
"Camping" is defined in the ordinance as using property for sleeping, storage, making fires, cooking activities or setting up tents.
Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego said it is not safe for individuals to be living in these areas and the city will continue to help unsheltered individuals with social services. Other members of the council emphasized that the ordinance was not intended to criminalize the homeless population.
"It’s so our community members can feel safer going to their parks, and those receiving services have a higher chance of success by not being surrounded by encampments," Councilwoman Ann O'Brien said in a statement.
The ordinance takes effect in September 2024.
Some people expressed skepticism about the city's objectives with passing the ordinance.
"They're going to clog the court system with tickets," said Daniel Mackey, who's been living on the streets for seven months. "It's revenue for the city. It's just revenue. And if that's all we are, then I think we're a little better than that."
Wednesday's action is the latest development in the city's ongoing struggle as it tries to decipher how to assist individuals living on the city's streets.
Phoenix was sued by the ACLU in 2022 for clearing out encampments in the downtown area. In that legal case, a judge declared the city can't enforce camping or sleeping bans on those experiencing homelessness if Phoenix doesn't have enough shelter space.
Councilwoman Betty Guardado, who was opposed to the camping policy when reviewed during a previous subcommittee meeting, was not present during Wednesday's vote.
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