(COLORADO SPRINGS) — Colorado Springs city council is considering an ordinance to address the growing number of people living in vehicles parked outside homes and businesses.
“The goal is not to punish anyone or make life harder for anyone,” said council member Dave Donelson, District 1.
City council member Dave Donelson has proposed a law that would make it illegal to park a vehicle in the same spot for more than 24 hours. The ordinance aims to help maintain orderly streets and connect vehicle campers with services.
“We’re seeing it more and more,” said Lt. Ryan Templey of the Colorado Springs Police Department’s (CSPD) Homeless Outreach Team.
CSPD’s Homeless Outreach Team has contacted 95 vehicle campers this year, responding to community concerns. They receive an average of five calls each day about the issue.
The proposed ordinance would prohibit motor vehicle camping for more than 24 hours in the same location or within 1,000 feet of that location. First-time offenders would receive a warning and a citation if they do not comply and move within 24 hours.
Lt. Templey noted that some vehicle campers have been cited for having stoves and piled-up items outside their vehicles, which fits the camping definition.
Council member Donelson emphasized the importance of connecting vehicle campers with services, such as emergency shelter and transitional housing, to help them improve their situation.
Some city council members expressed concerns about the potential consequences for homeless individuals who may not appear in court or have the means to pay fines. Councilwoman Kimberly Gold questioned what rejection of services looks like, with Lt. Templey responding that about 60% of outreach services are rejected.
The ordinance, if passed, would be similar to how police respond to tent campers who violate the city code. The vote on the ordinance is scheduled for November 11.
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