Rules for homeless camps?

The City of Shelton is considering amending its codes on camping on private property that could grant community groups permits to accommodate up to 30 people - with many proposed rules and regulations.

The proposed requirements would include an around-the-clock host, visual screening from the neighbors, exterior lighting pointed down, and a posted code of conduct. People with police warrants would not be allowed.

The Shelton City Council talked about the proposed code amendment changes at a work session May 24. The council can expect to address a proposed ordinance in early July, said City Manager Jeff Niten.

The proposed amendment states "camping overnight on private property not specifically designated for camping, which lacks adequate sanitation facilities and public safety measures, creates a danger to public health, welfare and safety ... the Shelton City Council wishes to prohibit overnight camping when such activity creates a public nuisance."

"This is about giving our code enforcement officers and police officers the tools necessary to address an issue," Niten said.

Under the proposed amendment, a group could be permitted for an encampment of up to 30 people for seven months, and after that could apply for a second seven months. The encampment could not be run for profit, and would not be allowed on a vacant lot – it must contain a secondary use such as a business or home.

The proposed requirements to receive a city permit are many. Hosts would have to provide around-the-clock contacts for Shelton Police. Open fires would be prohibited.

The encampment would not be allowed to cause "material harm" to neighbors, who would be notified in advance of a proposed camp and have the chance to speak at a public hearing.

"The big one I want to highlight is that they are required to provide drinking water connections, solid waste and human waste disposal, and the host shall provide access to restroom facilities 24 hours a day," Niten said.

Council member Kathy McDowell asked what the goal is for the city permitting camps.

"I think to find resources, make resources available to people so we can make sure people are not sleeping in their car, that type of thing," Niten said.

McDowell predicted that providing permits for homeless camps "will not go over well with citizens of Shelton." "Material harm" such as garbage will cause "mental harm" for neighbors, she said.

Council member Sharon Schirman said the high number of proposed rules and requirements would hold camp hosts accountable.

Council member Diedre Peterson suggested the city create a checklist of all the requirements for a permit so groups can fully understand the rules from the start.

Mayor Eric Onisko asked Niten to consider adding requirements on surveillance cameras and city liability insurance. Niten will also consider the council's proposal to change the name of the applicant on the permits from "religious institution" to "community organization."