Brainerd City Council votes to prohibit camping amid safety concerns

In a recent Brainerd City Council meeting, officials discussed the final reading of proposed ordinance 1571, aimed at prohibiting camping on public property in response to a growing number of homeless encampments in the area. Chief of Police Davis highlighted a significant increase in encampments, particularly near Evergreen Cemetery, raising public safety concerns. He emphasized that the ordinance would provide law enforcement with the necessary authority to address these issues, which had previously been unregulated.

The proposed ordinance states that camping on public property is prohibited unless expressly allowed, and violations could result in misdemeanor charges, with potential penalties including fines up to $1,000 or 90 days in jail. However, Chief Davis clarified that the city prosecutor would likely recommend a default fine of $135 for violations, aiming to enforce the ordinance without resorting to severe penalties.

During the public hearing, numerous residents voiced their concerns about the ordinance, arguing that it effectively criminalizes homelessness without providing adequate alternatives for those affected. Advocates for the unhoused, including local residents and service providers, urged the council to reconsider the ordinance, emphasizing the lack of year-round shelter options in Brainerd. They argued that criminalizing camping would exacerbate the challenges faced by vulnerable populations and could lead to increased tensions between law enforcement and individuals experiencing homelessness.

Several speakers proposed alternative solutions, such as temporary shelters or designated camping areas, and called for a more compassionate approach to addressing homelessness. They highlighted the importance of collaboration among community organizations to develop effective support systems rather than punitive measures.

Despite the pushback, the council ultimately voted to approve the ordinance, with some members expressing confidence in the police department's ability to implement it compassionately. The ordinance is seen as a necessary step to maintain public safety while acknowledging the complexities of homelessness in the community. The council's decision reflects ongoing tensions between public safety concerns and the need for humane treatment of individuals experiencing homelessness.