On July 15, the Anchorage Assembly could vote to approve a proposal to criminalize the growing problem of illegal encampments, which have trashed parks and public properties across the city.

The proposed ordinance is on the unfinished business agenda for the July 15 meeting. If approved, it would impose up to six months in jail and up to $2,000 in fines for those who violate the law.

After two public hearings in which residents pleaded with Assembly members to crack down on the growing number of people who are trashing, defecating, vandalizing and using public parks and facilities as bathrooms, the Assembly could finally approve the proposed ordinance this week, if the majority of members vote in favor of the idea.

There is no more public testimony scheduled on the matter, but residents can still speak about the issue during general public comments.

Backed by Assemblymen Keith McCormick, Scott Myers and Jared Goecker the proposed ordinance seeks to address what it calls “extensive unauthorized encampments that endanger public health, safety, and the quiet enjoyment of public places.”

Currently, Anchorage’s only legal tool to address illegal encampments is to abate them, but there is no provision to impose jail time or fines for violators. The proposed ordinance would address this by classifying illegal encampment as a Class B misdemeanor.

TAKING ACTION

— Click here to read the proposed ordinance.

— The July 15 Anchorage Assembly meeting starts at 5 p.m. in the Assembly Chambers at the Loussac Library. The public may submit written comments at www.muni.org/testimony and may also participate in-person, or by phone. Those who would like to provide comments or testimony over the phone, need to sign up online at this link by 5 p.m. on July 10. There is no sign-up list for in-person testimony – the Chair will invite the public to speak on a first come basis.

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