Council Members to Introduce New Camping and Obstruction Ordinance

Spokane City Council members will propose the “Safe and Accessible Spaces” ordinance during the Public Safety and Community Health Committee meeting on Monday. This ordinance empowers Spokane Police Department officers to offer services to individuals willing to accept help, while also allowing them to cite repeat violators of public camping and obstruction laws. Under this legislation, camping on all public property becomes illegal, and it includes measures to protect waterways, publicly owned trees, and address issues with illegal fires. Council Member Zack Zappone noted the importance of a balanced approach to support vulnerable individuals while enforcing the law. Council Member Michael Cathcart highlighted the shared commitment to community safety and accountability, reflecting on the recommendations he and others advocated for.

The ordinance also clarifies officers' discretion in enforcing violations, addressing issues from previous legislation passed in June. Members of the public can access the ordinance and sign up to testify at the committee meeting through a provided link. The committee will discuss the proposed ordinance and set a timeline for legislative action on these critical issues.