CRANSTON, R.I. (WPRI) — A new proposal to ban temporary shelters on city property in Cranston brought out some strong opposition during Thursday’s meeting.

Under the proposal, violators would also be charged a $50 fine, and any shelter not moved after 24 hours can be removed by the city.

The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) condemned the proposal , calling it “extraordinarily cruel.” Many community members echoed that sentiment.

“Not to mention the abject cruelty of treating people who are in need of support and assistance with punishment rather than kindness,” Becka Carroll said.

However, law enforcement officers said it’s needed to keep the community safe.

“There’s some serious concerns. I’ve been out in these encampments myself, there’s open fires, there’s propane tanks, there’s used needles and syringes,” Cranston Police Chief Michael Winquist said.

An ordinance passed by the city council back in 2016 to ban panhandling led to a lawsuit by the ACLU, which the city settled . The council voted Thursday to repeal that ordinance.

Cranston Mayor Ken Hopkins said he has concern for the homeless and wants to be proactive about finding housing for them, adding the ordinance would not criminalize anyone.

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