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Council narrows criteria, sets funding cap and names two council liaisons to evaluate potential managed-campsite sites
Summary
After months of public input, councilors identified preferred criteria for a managed campsite (utilities access, proximity to services, ownership, security, buffer from residential zones) and discussed a $200,000 capital cap; two council members volunteered to work with staff to bring site options back to the April 20 meeting.
Councilors discussed criteria for selecting potential locations for a managed (designated) campsite and signaled support for moving quickly to identify candidate sites. Key criteria identified included proximity to social services, on-site utilities or easy utility access, owner willingness or city ownership, size and capacity appropriate for management, public-safety and security measures (including fencing and controlled access), and buffers from single-family residential zones.
Councilor Davis proposed a $200,000 cap on implementation costs for candidate sites to guide staff and limit capital exposure. Several councilors said they preferred not to exclude all residential zones categorically but agreed at least to avoid R-1/R-2 parcels as a default. Public commenters urged that "discomfort is not criteria" and emphasized access to services and dignity for residents. Councilors Conklin and Mayor Fitzpatrick volunteered to work with staff on identifying candidate sites and to return options at the April 20 meeting; the council also discussed whether an ad hoc committee or a staff-led process with two council members would be the most efficient path forward.
