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Grand Forks Council adopts ordinance limiting camping and sleeping in vehicles after public debate
Summary
After a lengthy public hearing and council debate, Grand Forks City Council voted to adopt an ordinance prohibiting camping and sleeping in vehicles in specified public places, giving those asked to move 24 hours' notice; the vote was 5–2.
After a multi-hour public hearing and a round of public comments, the Grand Forks City Council voted to adopt an ordinance that prohibits camping and sleeping in vehicles in defined public areas, with a 24-hour notice period for persons asked to move.
The ordinance passed by a 5–2 vote following testimony from area nonprofits, faith-based volunteers and downtown business advocates. Public speakers urged the council to consider both the needs of people who are unsheltered and the concerns of small-business owners and families who use downtown public spaces.
“Camping on the greenway or in public spaces is not recreational,” said Gretchen Graff of Family of God Church, during public comment. “They are there because…
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