Bangor advisory committee forwards draft for safe outdoor space after unanimous vote

Bangor’s advisory committee on bridal equity, inclusion, and human rights voted unanimously to forward an amended legislative policy directive to city council asking the city to establish a temporary safe outdoor space and related supports for people living in a railroad encampment near Penobscot Plaza.

The committee’s action on the draft — approved 7–0 after an amendment limiting staffing to "presence as needed" rather than 24/7 — follows public comment and a briefing from City Manager Carolyn Lear about an unfolding situation in which CSX Railroad indicated it no longer wished to permit camping on its property and has suggested it may seek police assistance to remove people.

The vote sends the committee’s advisory directive to the city clerk for placement on the council agenda; the committee does not have authority to enact policy but recommended that council direct staff to identify and resource a temporary site with basic services, allow residents to remain together where feasible, and coordinate nonprofits and service…