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Board approves revised encampment response protocol after public criticism and staff defense
Summary
After public comment criticizing encampment removals, the Board approved Community Services Department revisions to the encampment response protocol; supervisors said protocol aims to balance safety, agricultural protection and outreach, while advocates said removals traumatize unsheltered residents.
The Board voted to approve revisions to the county’s encampment response protocol on March 11 after a public commenter criticized the approach as traumatic and inadequate on housing supply and outreach.
Gina Quiroz of the Committee for Social Justice told the board that the revised protocol would shorten relocation time, reduce storage opportunities for personal belongings, and displace people into more precarious situations when shelter capacity is inadequate. She urged the county to reallocate spending for encampment removals toward affordable housing.
Supervisor Nelson and other board supporters said the protocol is intended to be compliant with state and federal law, to allow earlier action in hazardous locations, and to expand protections for agricultural operations (including new parking restrictions near farm fields) and food safety. Nelson said the county’s ongoing investments in shelter and outreach (including Hope Village and other programs) are part of a broader strategy and that the protocol allows flexibility to act sooner where public safety or food‑safety risks are present.
The Board adopted the revised protocol by voice vote following a motion to approve; supervisors emphasized continued coordination with community services, sheriff, and outreach providers and said staff should continue to prioritize housing placements and communication.
Ending: The board approved the protocol and the item will be implemented through the Community Services Department with continued monitoring and outreach to service providers.
