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Council adopts new rules for St. Benedict encampment after months of coalition work
Summary
After multiple public comments urging compassion and operational clarity, council unanimously adopted a package of rules for St. Benedict's encampment addressing trespass procedures, campsite cleanliness, pet registration, quiet hours, service-engagement expectations and time limits (six months, extendable to one year).
The Alamosa City Council unanimously adopted new operational rules for the St. Benedict encampment on Oct. 16 after staff and the Homeless Coalition drafted language following public input.
Staff described the rules developed by the coalition: signed liability waivers and campsite acknowledgements; designated individual sites and shared-area cleanup expectations with a seven-day correction notice; pet registration and vaccination within 30 days (with two warnings before trespass); quiet hours between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m.; limits on structures (tents only); and a time-limit policy that restricts continuous stays to six months with an extension up to a second six-month period when a camper is actively engaged with services (total maximum one year). Trespassed individuals cannot return without written permission from the police chief.
Public commenters and coalition members had urged flexibility and compassion; multiple speakers warned that some people need longer to obtain identification or housing placements. Council members emphasized careful rollout, outreach to current residents, and coordination with La Puente Outreach, CSOs and other service providers. Councilor Dominguez said the rules are intended to keep the camp open while improving safety and access to services, rather than closing it.
Implementation steps: Staff said Community Service Officers (CSOs) will document compliance and consult service providers during six-month evaluations. The council directed staff to work with the homeless coalition on outreach and a deliberate implementation schedule so residents are not surprised by new enforcement measures.
