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Oakland commission approves first reading of ordinance prohibiting public camping on town property
Summary
The commission approved a first reading of Ordinance 2025‑03 to prohibit public camping and sleeping on town property; police said the ordinance aligns the town with state law and emphasizes offering resources rather than criminalizing homelessness.
The Town of Oakland commission approved the first reading of Ordinance 2025‑03 on June 24, updating town code to prohibit public camping and sleeping on town‑owned property and to provide enforcement mechanisms consistent with recent state law changes.
Chief Darren Eason explained the ordinance aligns Oakland with state requirements and provides the department authority to issue warnings, connect people to resources, and apply penalties where appropriate. "This is just the first step in what we're required to do under the law," the chief said, emphasizing officers will continue to offer resources and options for people experiencing homelessness.
Commission discussion noted some encampments sit on Orange County property rather than town land and that county crews plan cleanup and outreach on county parcels. The chief said the town will assist Orange County when asked and that the ordinance pertains only to town public property such as fountains or park areas.
A commissioner moved to recommend approval of the ordinance as prepared by Voss Law Firm (Ordinance 2025‑03) for its first reading; the motion carried on a voice vote. The ordinance will return for required subsequent readings before final adoption.
