FRESNO, Calif. (KMJ/KFSN) — The Fresno City Council will be holding a special meeting Monday to introduce an ordinance designed to crack down on homeless encampments.
The announcement to eliminate encampments was made just one day after Gov. Gavin Newsom signed an executive order.
It directs state agencies to come up with a plan to remove encampments on state property.
On Friday, Fresno City leaders revealed new details about a proposal to ban encampments in the city limits.
The ordinance says “No person may sit, lie, sleep or camp on a public place at any time.”
That includes sidewalks, streets, alleyways and other public spaces.
Those being moved will be offered help accessing services.
Ed Noreiga, who owns Valley Remnants & Rolls on Blackstone and Dakota in central Fresno, says he’s happy the council is also trying to look out for those who are unhoused in the community.
“I like that the council is not leaving people with mental illness and drug addiction on the street, and that they’re working on something that can help them make a better decision for their lives,” Noreiga said.
The council’s special meeting will introduce and agree upon the framework for the ordinance, which will then go forward for a formal adoption at the August 15 meeting.
Once approved, the ordinance goes into effect on September 15.
