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Commission passes ordinance restricting camping on city property; public asks about homeless supports
Summary
Ordinance No. 4 was adopted to regulate camping on city‑owned or controlled property; residents asked how the city will address people currently camping, and officials said Chattanooga agencies provide assistance and police will offer transport when accepted.
The Board of Commissioners adopted Ordinance No. 4 on Aug. 3, adding Title 20 Section 201 and a new Section 301 to regulate camping on property owned, operated, leased or controlled by the City of Soddy‑Daisy. The measure was approved after a public hearing and final reading.
During the public hearing, Curtis Cecil of 9619 Dayton Pike asked what the city would do for homeless individuals currently camping on city property. Commissioner Shipley said, "this is not our problem," and Mayor Everett said agencies in Chattanooga provide assistance and that the Police Department will use discretion, with officers offering transportation when the individual agrees.
Captain Petty told commissioners that officers already offer transportation to Chattanooga's services if the person agrees; the city has no overnight housing facilities. Commissioner Penney asked whether officers could transport people to safe havens; Captain Petty said they offer transport now if the individual will accept it. The motion to adopt the ordinance was moved by Commissioner Shipley and seconded by Commissioner Keith and passed unanimously.
The ordinance targets camping on city‑controlled property and does not apply to private property. The board identified the intent as addressing transient camping and potential public nuisance or health and safety concerns. The meeting record does not show creation of a local shelter or new local services; staff referenced reliance on existing regional providers.
