Des Moines City Council considers ban, faster removal of homeless camps

DES MOINES, Iowa — The Des Moines City Council is considering a plan that would ban camping in public spaces and decrease the amount of time people have to remove their belongings.

According to council documents , camping on public property would be banned and those found to be camping would have 24 hours to remove their camp.

Along with the ban, the amended ordinances would also change encroachment policy. The changes would allow city staff to issue notices to those believed to be in violation of the ordinance without a community complaint. The individual would then only have three days, instead of ten, to remove their items.

Council documents state that the city would work with shelters to help provide those forced to remove their camps find housing. The city would also store personal belongings at no charge for up to 30 days while the affected individual secures housing.

Councilman Chris Coleman said he believes this plan is a compassionate way of solving the issue, and he hopes that these changes help those experiencing homelessness get back on their feet.

“The city knows what most of the obstacles are for some of those that are unsheltered,” Coleman said. “They have a lot of possessions, they have a pet, they need transportation, they might need an advocate to help them through some of the processes, and Des Moines is setting up solutions for each of those four, so that we’re breaking down the barriers to people entering the shelters.”

A special council meeting will be held on Monday, July 22 at 7:30 a.m. to vote on the ordinance changes.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to who13.com.