Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Public Safety Homelessness topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Residents raise alarms about encampment along railroad; commissioners urge property owners to sign trespass complaints
Summary
Public commenters reported a growing encampment along tracks and private property, citing safety concerns and theft. The police and commissioners said enforcement requires property-owner trespass complaints before officers can remove occupants.
Several residents at the Feb. 4 Millville City Commission meeting reported a growing homeless encampment along private property adjacent to the railroad corridor and asked the city to act. Commenters described trespassing, trash, burning of wire, drug use and threats to local businesses and pedestrians.
A resident identified as Tom (last name not given) asked whether the city had identified the hazardous material removed at a previously reported site and raised concerns about an expanding encampment near Second Street and Orange Street. He said businesses and residents were reporting thefts and arson risk related to burned wire.
Commissioners and staff responded that police have visited the area, conducted an initial walkthrough and provided notices to occupants. Commissioner Hewitt relayed a message from the police chief by text: officers walked the encampment, issued notice of potential trespass enforcement and will act when property owners sign trespassing complaints. Commissioners repeatedly told residents that the city needs the property owner to sign formal trespass complaints to trigger certain enforcement actions; they cautioned against vigilante interventions and urged following legal procedures.
Why it matters: residents and businesses reported safety and property‑crime concerns; the commission outlined the administrative steps the police can take and emphasized that property owners must sign trespass complaints to enable enforcement.
Clarifying details: the police chief’s text (as read by Commissioner Hewitt) said officers walked the encampment, gave notice to those present and that enforcement depends on owners signing trespass complaints; Atlantic Electric and Winchester & Western railroad representatives had become involved for safety concerns where electrical poles or rail operations were threatened.
Ending: Commissioners encouraged property owners and businesses to file formal complaints with police so officers can pursue legal enforcement; they warned that private attempts at removal or fencing could be unlawful and create liability.
