Council introduces ordinance to ban sleeping or camping on public property; debate centers on homelessness strategy

The City of Summit Common Council on April 1 introduced Ordinance 11871, which would add section 3‑19 to the city police regulations to prohibit sleeping or camping on sidewalks, parks, streets, benches and other public property.

The measure was introduced by Councilman Boyer and carried on a 5‑1 roll call after several council members and public commenters debated whether the ordinance would help protect public spaces or set back the city’s recent, data‑driven effort to reduce homelessness.

The ordinance text read into the record by the clerk says it would "establish[] clear rules that prohibit sleeping or camping in public spaces, such as sidewalks, parks, streets, benches, and other public areas," and says the purpose is "to preserve the safe and accessible use of public property for all residents, pedestrians, and businesses." Councilman Boyer said the ordinance aims to address "obstructions and public nuisances caused by encampments while ensuring our shared spaces remain clean, safe, and welcoming for the community." He moved to…