Commission rejects camping ban and endorses homelessness support resolution

The commission declined to adopt a proposed ordinance that would have criminalized "camping" (sleeping or storing personal property in public spaces) after extensive public testimony from more than 100 residents, service providers and people with lived experience of homelessness. Speakers warned the ordinance would criminalize survival, create warrants and fines that compound homelessness, and displace people away from services; many urged a "housing‑first" approach and investment in shelter capacity and outreach. "Criminalizing homelessness is not compassionate," said Michael Bean of the Athens Homeless Coalition during public comment, summarizing the view of multiple providers and public health experts.

Following that debate the commission passed a separate resolution (Item 30) endorsing evidence‑based practices, directing staff to identify county‑owned properties appropriate for shelter or low‑barrier housing, and to pursue partnerships with other governments, providers and philanthropic organizations. Commissioners who opposed a ban said enforcement without available shelter would merely relocate people and increase costs; commissioners who supported tighter rules urged more rapid partnership work to create alternatives. The resolution instructs staff to return with cost estimates, site assessments and a plan for interagency cooperation.