Spokane City Council Adopts Engagement and Enforcement Ordinances

Spokane City Council approved two ordinances to combat homelessness during its Legislative Session. Ordinance C36679, known as the Obstruction and Unauthorized Camping ordinance, consolidates existing laws and makes unauthorized camping a misdemeanor offense throughout the city. It prioritizes engagement over enforcement, aiming to connect individuals to essential services before issuing citations. Ordinance C36694 defines aggressive solicitation, targeting behaviors that intimidate others and ensuring public safety. Council Member Zack Zappone emphasized the importance of finding safe housing solutions beyond the enforcement of these ordinances.

Council Member Paul Dillon noted that these changes clarify existing laws while promoting public health. The Council will continue to evaluate and monitor the implementation of these ordinances. This legislative action follows extensive community feedback and aims to address the growing homelessness crisis in Spokane.