Edmonds City Council passes ban on public camping after extended debate
After weeks of delays and extended debate, the Edmonds City Council has passed an ordinance making it illegal to camp on public property.
The ordinance passed with a 5-2 vote at a council meeting Tuesday night, with Councilmembers Laura Johnson and Susan Paine voting against the measure.
Tuesday’s meeting was the fourth time the council had considered the matter for a possible vote.
Violating the ordinance is a misdemeanor and punishable with a fine of up to $1,000 or 90 days in jail.
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Many supporters of the ordinance have cited public safety concerns, while those who oppose it say the law would criminalize homelessness and create additional barriers for unhoused individuals.
“I do not want to see encampments form and that is one of the risks of letting people stay in parks,” said Councilmember Neil Tibbett. “I think this ordinance provides a compassionate way to engage with people, it gives them opportunities to choose a better solution for themselves.”
The city says the ordinance will only be enforced if there is shelter space available within a 35-mile radius of Edmonds City Hall.
There is also a provision that states if a person is unable to pay the fine, the court is authorized to order them to complete community service in lieu of paying a penalty.
