NEWS: Board Approves New Approach to Encourage Unhoused Residents in Illegal Encampments to Accept Shelter and Support
San Mateo County, California sent this bulletin at 01/23/2024 04:06 PM PST
Jan. 23, 2024
For Immediate Release
Board Approves New Approach to Encourage Unhoused Residents in Illegal Encampments to Accept Shelter and Support
Supervisors: ‘inhumane’ not to act when empty shelter beds available
Redwood City – Calling it “inhumane” to leave individuals experiencing homelessness living in illegal and often unsafe encampments on public property when there are available shelter beds, the Board of Supervisors today unanimously approved an ordinance aimed at encouraging them to accept assistance.
“Think about this. Forty homeless people die in San Mateo County every year . . . That’s just not acceptable. As a society, we shouldn’t tolerate that,” said Board President Warren Slocum, who introduced the “Hopeful Horizons: Empowering Lives” initiative with Sup. Dave Pine.
The ordinance, which requires a second reading before becoming effective solely in the unincorporated areas, allows authorities to charge a person living in an encampment on public property with a misdemeanor after receiving at least two written warnings and two offers of shelter that are declined. Prior to the first warning, a medical and mental health screening will be completed. Anyone cited with a misdemeanor violation under the ordinance would automatically qualify for participation in appropriate diversion programs offered by the San Mateo County Superior Court, thereby avoiding jail time.
