Minneapolis fails to take down a private homeless camp. Heres what happened.

Minneapolis officials faced challenges in their attempt to dismantle a homeless encampment established by property owner Hamoudi Sabri, who defied city ordinances. The encampment, situated behind Sabri's vacant building, has grown to about 50 residents and has been flagged for unsafe conditions by Health Commissioner Damon Chaplin. Concerns included drug paraphernalia, accumulated waste, and open fires. Outreach workers attempted to provide resources, but many residents found shelters full. Sabri maintained that the encampment was organized, emphasizing a zero-tolerance policy for violence and drug use outside of tents.

After hours of negotiation, officials reached a temporary compromise allowing residents to set up tents at night. Nearby residents reported increased issues, such as panhandling and littering, since the encampment began. The city’s decision to halt the clearing raises questions about future responses to homelessness in the area.