City Council passes amended version of controversial public camping ordinance

During a marathon city council meeting lasting over 6 hours, city councilors voted on 12 proposed city ordinance changes that were proposed by Mayor Reinert’s administration earlier this month.

Included in these proposals was item 24-030-O, an amendment to city code that would make public camping a misdemeanor – something critics called essentially criminalizing homelessness

The meeting started earlier than normal as to give ample time for citizens to address city officials. In total, 81 Duluthians weighed in – a vast majority speaking on 24-030-O.

Public comment has been very active on the specific proposal, with well over 100 citizens addressing the council at this and the previous meetings, as well as dozens of others via e-mail.

After citizens weighed in and several councilors themselves spoke, the item was voted on and passed, though in an amended form.

The change removed misdemeanor charges for offenders, and instead limits enforcement to a fine of no more than $200.

Several city council members cited the removal of the misdemeanor charge was due to extensive feedback from constituents.

Now passed, the change, along with others voted on, will go into effect in 30 days.