DANVILLE, Ill. (WCIA) — City Council passed a proposal that would outlaw public camping in Danville by a vote of eight to four Tuesday night.
A few more steps remain in the process: The ordinance requires publication by the city clerk and subsequent online posting by the city. Once completed, the Danville Police Department will be able to begin enforcing it.
Deputy Police Chief Terry McCord of Danville noted that public camping has grown into a safety and sanitary issue. The department has reported incidents like fires in vacant homes, and public areas littered with trash and needles.
McCord said the ordinance is pretty broad, but right now they’re focusing specifically on the public camping regulation.
“We’re addressing this from a city ordinance perspective rather than under a state statute, which could result in someone being jailed and acquiring a criminal record,” McCord explained.
He said even though it states people can be subject to fines and arrest, the police department doesn’t plan on taking measures that far. He also said Danville offers several different resources to help the homeless.
Officers give out guidance cards, people can go to the Danville YMCA for a shower and food, or the men’s homeless shelter. McCord also said if anyone needs help, they can call 211 for assistance with food, housing, healthcare and more.
