The Ward County Commission opened a public hearing at 9:07 a.m. Aug. 19 on Ward County Ordinance 2025-3, “Camping on Public Property.” State’s Attorney Roza Larson presented an overview of the ordinance; speakers urged the commission to consider limited local resources for people who are homeless and to prioritize outreach over criminal penalties. The hearing closed at 9:26 a.m.

The ordinance under consideration governs camping on public property in Ward County. State’s Attorney Roza Larson provided the commission with the ordinance overview during the hearing; the minutes do not record additional legal detail or a final vote to adopt the ordinance that day.

Mark Heinert, Youthworks director, told the commission that the community lacks sufficient resources for people experiencing homelessness and asked the commission to “take into consideration the lack of resources” and to refrain from issuing charges to people who are camping. Deputy Sheriff Larry Hubbard said the Ward County Sheriff’s Department would visit the camping site with community partners to offer assistance to those who may need it. The minutes record the hearing participants but do not include direct transcribed quotes beyond Heinert’s request not to charge campers.

The commission’s procedural actions were limited to opening and closing the public hearing. The motion to open the hearing was made by Commissioner Olson and seconded by Commissioner Rostad; roll call showed Commissioners Rostad, Merritt (by phone), Olson, Schuler and Chair Fjeldahl voting yes. The motion to close the hearing was moved by Commissioner Rostad and seconded by Commissioner Olson; the same roll call result is recorded.

The minutes do not record any vote that day to adopt, amend or otherwise finalize Ordinance 2025-3. The record shows public comment and agency overview; any further action (for example, a vote to adopt) is not recorded in these minutes.

Ward County residents or organizations wishing to submit materials or request further consideration should watch for future agenda postings or contact the State’s Attorney’s office for procedural guidance. The commission recorded this hearing on Aug. 19 and then proceeded to other business on the agenda.