Fort Myers police highlight outreach first as new public‑camping ordinance takes effect

Fort Myers police told council the city is emphasizing outreach and partner referrals under the public‑camping ordinance that took effect Jan. 1, and presented tracking data, outreach cards and short‑term housing options for referrals.

The police chief said the department trained officers and embedded an outreach 'hot team' to prioritize connecting people to services before enforcement. "We do conduct far more outreach than enforcement actions," the chief said, and staff reported ordinance warnings were issued but, as of the morning of the meeting, no arrests had been made under the new ordinance. Staff noted a short‑term arrangement at the Salvation Army providing 15 beds (9 available as of the prior day, 6 reserved for FMPD referrals) and said the city will supply referral information cards and a fuller informational handout for distribution to people encountered on the street.

Council members praised the outreach focus and asked for copies of resource materials to share with churches and community partners. Staff also proposed a city diversion program to provide short‑term supports (for example, bus tickets) for people ineligible for county diversion programs; the council asked staff to return with a funding appropriation for that program on a future agenda. Staff additionally discussed bench removal and replacement designs downtown to lessen repeated encampment locations while coordinating with the CRA.