CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – Charlottesville City Council tonight considers an ordinance banning camping in public rights-of-way without written permission from the City Manager. Police Chief Mike Kochis will present to Council that CPD has received “quality of life complaints” which includes “blocked sidewalks and rights-of-way, accumulation of personal belongings, and impacts on surrounding neighborhoods and businesses”. The ordinance sets what the city calls an “encampment response protocol” that is “lawful and coordinated across departments, compassionate and respectful, and focused on connecting people to services”.
The ordinance would ensure immediate removal of hazardous sites — such as safety risks, criminal activity, and trash and health issues. If people are present, the protocol would require notifying law enforcement and outreach staff, posting notice if possible, and removing and storing personal property while disposing of trash and hazards. Non-profit partners may assist with outreach during inspections.
Non-hazardous sites would have to be removed within 10 business days.
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