Item A: Homeless Camping in Parks and Open Spaces

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The critical elements of this management strategy include the following:  Eugene Code 4.815 Prohibited Camping – This section of the Eugene Code defines camping and campsites and prohibits camping in parks and open spaces and other publicly owned property.  Park and Open Space Rules – The rules are adopted administratively and include provisions that establish the hours that parks and open spaces are closed and prohibits the setting up or constructing of temporary structures or enclosures.  Parks and Open Space Division Procedure for Illegal Campsite Posting and Clean-Up – This procedure was developed subsequent to the Ninth Circuit Court decision and is consistent with the decision and with Oregon Revised Statutes. The procedures guide Parks and Open Space Division staff and contractors on the posting and clean-up of campsites and the storage and retrieval of personal property collected during clean-up operations.  Contract with Lane County Sheriff’s Work Crew – The Sheriff’s work crew is the primary resource used to dismantle and clean up camps found within parks and open spaces.  Partnership with Eugene Police Department – The Police Department provides support to Parks and Open Space staff during clean-up operations when there is a risk to the personal safety of staff from hostile individuals or aggressive dogs occupying camps scheduled for clean-up. RELATED CITY POLICIES Eugene Code 4.815 Prohibited Camping (2) It is found and declared that: (a) From time to time persons establish campsites on sidewalks, public rights-of way, under bridges, and so forth; (b) Such persons, by such actions create unsafe and unsanitary living conditions which pose a threat to the peace, health and safety of themselves and the community; and, (c) The enactment of this provision is necessary to protect the peace, health and safety of the city and its inhabitants. (3) No person shall camp in or upon any sidewalk, street, alley, lane, public right-of-way, park or any other publicly-owned property or under any bridge or viaduct, unless otherwise specifically authorized by this code or by declaration of the Mayor in emergency circumstances. COUNCIL OPTIONS Staff is presenting information requested by the council. CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION Alternatives and recommendations will be provided next week and during the work session. S:\CMO\2013 Council Agendas\M130424\S130424A.doc