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The Thurston County Board of County Commissioners held a Public Hearing on Tuesday, November 8, to discuss the emergency housing ordinance code amendment concerning homeless encampments.
“This is an amendment to the homeless encampments chapter of Thurston County code. This code amendment does not make homeless encampments permanent. Homeless encampment permits are still a temporary use,” Associate Planner Lea Davis as she presented the background information of the amendment that needed public testimony.
According to the county’s site, homeless encampments are permitted administratively as a temporary use subject to conditions. However, they cannot exceed more than 180 days in the same location.
Public comment
Only one member of the public, Bruce, pointed out his views on Thurston County when it comes to these encampments. “I'm really concerned about what's going on in this county. We have a serious double standard,” Bruce said, “I, as a taxpayer, am held for everything that I do. My septic system starts to go out– I [am] held responsible to fix that immediately or face fines.”
Bruce commented that the county needs to take care of those who need help, but it needs to narrow down the individuals needing help, “I am here to request that you deny this motion because I don't feel it's right. We have double standards for these encampments. Somebody else's decision not to get employment and take care of themselves should not be a burden on the taxpayers,” Bruce said.
The chapter for homeless encampments in the Thurston County code can be viewed here.
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JulesJames
The headline should read: "Sponsored Homeless Encampments Ordinance." The county isn't legitimizing camping on public property, just churches and organizations sponsoring up to 40 shacks on their own property for 180 days max. The body of the story should contain the proposed amendment. Is the sponsorship requirement being removed? Or the limited duration for an encampment? Or any of the limitations on shack locations?
Thursday, November 10, 2022 Report this
dsanders
You go Bruce!
Thursday, November 10, 2022 Report this