Council Members to Introduce New Camping and Obstruction Ordinance

The Spokane City Council plans to introduce the “Safe and Accessible Spaces” ordinance at Monday's Public Safety and Community Health Committee meeting. This new legislation prohibits public camping and obstruction, allowing officers to provide services or issue citations to violators. Officers will have additional resources to tackle issues such as illegal fires, litter, and the protection of waterways and trees. Council Member Zack Zappone emphasized that the ordinance aims for a balanced approach to aid vulnerable individuals while maintaining public safety. Council Member Michael Cathcart noted the importance of accountability and ensuring basic safety standards for all community members.

This ordinance addresses a gap in enforcement discretion identified in a prior ordinance passed in June. The council will discuss the ordinance and establish a timeline for legislative action during the meeting. Members of the public can view the ordinance and sign up to testify online.