Greenwood Council approves ordinances on lien collection and public encampments

Greenwood City Council took significant steps towards improving local governance during their meeting on April 21, 2025, by approving two key ordinances aimed at enhancing public safety and streamlining municipal processes.

The council unanimously passed Ordinance 25-005, which amends existing regulations regarding the collection of liens. This ordinance eliminates inconsistent time frames for lien collection, allowing the city to file liens immediately after public work is completed on private properties, such as grass cutting or trash collection. Previously, the ordinance specified collection periods of either 30 or 60 days, which created confusion. The updated language aims to clarify the process and align it with state law, facilitating more efficient tax collection in the future. City officials noted that this change is a crucial first step in a broader effort to improve municipal operations.

In a related effort to address homelessness, the council also approved Ordinance 25-006, which provides law enforcement with clear guidelines for managing encampments on public property. This ordinance, modeled after successful legislation from Somerville, allows the city to post notices on encampments, giving individuals 24 hours to remove their belongings. In emergency situations, such as safety hazards, a shorter three-hour notice period can be enforced. The ordinance aims to ensure public spaces remain safe and accessible, particularly for families and children, while also addressing the challenges posed by increasing homelessness in the area.

Both ordinances reflect the council's commitment to enhancing community safety and improving the efficiency of city operations. As these measures are implemented, city officials will continue to monitor their effectiveness and make adjustments as necessary to better serve Greenwood residents.