Public commenter says proposed camping ordinance would criminalize sleeping; city manager cites immediate shelter options and upcoming budget investments

Aaron Weaver told the council a proposed camping or homeless ordinance would effectively criminalize sleeping in public and would punish people for existing when shelters and supports are limited. "This ordinance criminalizes sleeping on public property," Weaver said, arguing the measure addresses observation rather than conduct and risks criminal penalties when housing or services are unavailable.

Weaver urged the council to prioritize housing, outreach and treatment rather than criminal penalties, noting that hotel placements, tiny-home options and other supports discussed previously are not guaranteed for all individuals. He said the ordinance "is about sleep" and that criminalizing sleep would disproportionately affect people experiencing homelessness.

After public comment, City Manager Bunton responded on behalf of staff. She acknowledged resources currently available, including hotel placements used as measures of last resort, VASH vouchers for veterans, family-shelter options, and referrals to service providers such as Peninsula Rescue Mission. Bunton said the city would continue to work with human services and the community services board to place individuals when appropriate.

Bunton added that the budget recommendation (to be released March 15 per her remarks) will contain investments in hotel-type funding and transitional and permanent supportive housing, reflecting council and public polling that prioritized those measures. She said staff will follow up on questions and suggested resources for people who raised issues tonight.

The exchange did not produce an ordinance vote; Weaver’s remarks were part of the public-comment period and Bunton’s response summarized available resources and planned budget priorities.