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Board adopts encampments-on-public-property ordinance after ad hoc outreach
Summary
The Trinity County Board of Supervisors enacted Trinity County Code section 8.41 addressing encampments on public property. County staff and the ad hoc committee said outreach and voluntary service offers accompany enforcement; supervisors acknowledged concerns about criminalization and the need for supportive services.
Trinity County — The Trinity County Board of Supervisors enacted Trinity County Code section 8.41, an ordinance governing encampments on public property, on June 17 after a second reading and board discussion about outreach and supportive services.
County Administrative Officer (CAO) Tuthill presented the item and said the ordinance was the product of an ad hoc committee that has conducted site visits and outreach. The CAO and other staff emphasized that contact visits are intended to inform people living in encampments about available services and housing options and that engagement is voluntary.
Nut graf: The ordinance is accompanied by ongoing outreach and an ad hoc process to coordinate services. Board members acknowledged constituent concerns about enforcement and the need to ensure supportive pathways before any actions are taken.
What the board heard
- Outreach and ad hoc work: Staff reported the ad hoc committee has conducted camp walks, engages with people voluntarily and scheduled further multi‑agency site visits (the next was set for June 23) to offer services and evaluate options. - Public concerns: Supervisors relayed constituent feedback about potential criminalization, selective enforcement and legal/fiscal risk; CAO staff and the ad hoc said they have prioritized outreach and voluntary service offers. - Board action: The ordinance (second reading) was enacted by unanimous vote.
Vote: Supervisor Cox — Aye; Supervisor Lutweiler — Aye; Supervisor Carpenter Harris — Aye.
Ending: The ad hoc group will continue site visits and report back with recommendations on the ad hoc’s future role and implementation of the ordinance.
