Des Moines City Council passes ordinance banning camping on city property

DES MOINES, Iowa (KCCI) – A controversial ordinance to address the city’s homeless problem by banning overnight stays on city property passed the Des Moines City Council’s final reading on Monday by a vote of 5-2.

The regulation, which has been revised several times in recent months, has sparked passionate reactions from supporters and opponents alike.

City Councilman Chris Coleman passionately defended the ordinance, saying, “To be a great city and to ensure safety in our neighborhoods, on our sidewalks and in our parks, camping is incompatible with the city we strive to provide for our neighbors.”

The new rule imposes a $15 fine on people camping in public places, down from the original $50 fine.

However, City Councilor Josh Mandelbaum spoke out strongly against any fine.

“The biggest harm is that it’s a crime. And a crime creates a barrier… We’re criminalizing homelessness. We’re criminalizing camping,” he said.

In conjunction with the ordinance, the city plans to provide several resources to those affected, including pet care, personal belongings storage, and funds for additional social workers. In addition, there is a new proposal to allow temporary housing for the homeless in church parking lots.

Mayor Connie Boesen said: “We have spoken to some churches about this and will try to change the ordinance to allow camping sites as there are some sites available during the week.”

Councilman Joe Gatto reiterated the council’s commitment to finding a balanced solution.

“We need to do better and we have spent a lot of time on this regulation to make sure we are doing the right thing,” he said.

Despite these efforts, many homeless advocates in the audience were vocal in their opposition. Heaven Chamberlain, a Des Moines resident, sharply criticized the council, stating, “You are part of this community and you have failed them. The Des Moines City Council is a heartless disgrace.”

With the new ordinance in place, the city faces the ongoing challenge of balancing public safety with the needs and rights of its homeless residents.

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