BREAKING: Bozeman Passes Ordinance Involving “Urban Campers”
You know the old saying, "Opinions are like...and everyone has one". You don't have to ask too many people in Bozeman to talk about the "urban camping" situation to hear an opinion or two.
READ MORE: How big is Bozeman's homeless issue?
While those opinions might vary, it's certainly a subject that people are passionate about, on both sides.
For the last few years, the city has seen many folks taking to the streets and living in their vehicles and campers. While the reasons may vary, a big factor is Bozeman's cost of living and high rent prices.
While many businesses and residents have spoken out against the idea of letting people live on the streets. They say that crime is on the rise and that several of these areas have seen an increase in litter (including drug paraphernalia). Others have defended the idea stating "Where else can they go?"
It's a debate that is sure to rage on for some time.
What was in the ordinance that the city commission passed?
In a meeting held on October 8th, the Bozeman City Commission passed an ordinance regarding the "urban camping" issue. The ordinance, titled 2172 states the following:
"The intent of Ordinance 2172 is to establish a generally applicable law that prohibits camping on the right of way and on public property while allowing a limited permit system for persons experiencing homelessness who comply with regulations to camp on the right of way. The ordinance proposes enhanced regulations beyond those currently in code for a permittee. The ordinance also proposes establishing misdemeanor penalties for violations of the general camping prohibition and for violating a permit. Ordinance 2172 recommends the permits be limited to 30 days with renewals determined on a case-by-case basis."
So what does all of these mean? I'm not sure anyone knows yet. One thing is for sure, we haven't heard the last of this and as Bozeman continues to grow, issues like this will continue to be a problem.
Is there some sort of middle ground?
What won't work is trying to appease both sides of the debate. While both have valid points, run-down campers lining up the streets around town is an eyesore and there is no denying that. And while the "numbers" might not show that crime has increased around the areas of these "camps", ask the residents living in the neighborhoods nearby.
You're likely to hear a very different story.
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