MISSOULA — The Missoula City Council approved new regulations on camping on city property, banning camping in all parks and reclassifying violations as misdemeanors. The decision came after six hours of debate and public input, passing with a 9-3 vote. Council Members Daniel Carlino, Kristen Jordan, and Jennifer Savage opposed the changes. Concerns were raised about the impact on unsheltered individuals and the need for places offering services.
Critics like Carlino argue that criminalizing camping prolongs homelessness. “It’s super counterproductive to give people criminal charges, tow people’s vehicles, and hold their vehicle/home until they have enough money to get it back from the city,” he said. Savage insisted on designated areas for unsheltered individuals. Meanwhile, supporters emphasized the ordinance provides necessary enforcement tools and addresses public concerns.
The updated law, effective January 1, prohibits camping in parks and requires tents to be taken down during the day. A vehicle-camping permit system lets individuals park for up to 90 days in specific areas. City officials are tasked with guiding individuals to shelters before enforcing rules, and first-time violations receive a warning.
The ordinance aims to mitigate rather than solve issues like housing costs and mental health care, according to Amber Sherrill, one of its sponsors. She said, “This ordinance with and without these amendments is a mitigation effort. It does not solve the problem of housing costs, the lack of mental health care, the lack of addictive services, the vacancy rate or the opioid crisis. It does not solve homelessness.”
Administrative complications have delayed implementation, including staff turnover and challenges with the municipal infraction process. Changes simplify enforcement by reclassifying infractions as misdemeanors. Other amendments include allowing updates to closure areas online and extending camping hours in winter months.
Public reaction varied, with some residents supporting the park camping ban, citing safety concerns, while others opposed due to a lack of alternatives for unsheltered individuals. A group of nonprofits is exploring designated campsites, and discussions continue about increasing supportive resources. Some council members stress the need for more state and federal funding to address homelessness comprehensively.
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