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Council adopts amendment to public camping rules after residents urge compassion
Summary
Kewanee adopted Bill 26-45, amending Chapter 95 of the city code to address public camping and nuisance abatement; residents urged compassion for people experiencing homelessness and city staff outlined available resources.
The Kewanee City Council adopted Bill 26-45 on May 26, an ordinance amending Chapter 95 of the City Code regarding public camping and nuisance abatement.
Council discussed the change as part of an ongoing effort to keep ordinances aligned with community needs, balancing compassion for people experiencing homelessness with public access to parks and other areas. Two community members, identified in the minutes as Ms. Gerard and Ms. Israel, spoke to the council about concerns for the unhoused and urged that they be treated as people, not as a "problem." The minutes record that both speakers said the issue is difficult and that community support is needed.
Deputy Police Chief described resources the city and police department coordinate and share with individuals in need. Councilmember Baker moved to approve the ordinance; Councilmember Cernovich seconded. The motion passed 5-0.
The ordinance amendments were approved as presented; staff noted the complexities of addressing homelessness and reiterated that the city will attempt to connect people to available help and services.
