City Commission Calls for Public Hearing on Prohibitive Camping Ordinance to Address Encampments

On Tuesday, the Bismarck City Commission called for a public hearing in October regarding a prohibitive camping ordinance to address encampments in the right of way. The ordinance is designed to protect the safety of unhoused individuals and the wider community while ensuring that public spaces remain accessible to all.

"This ordinance intends to balance compassion with public safety. Being homeless is not a crime," said Bismarck Police Chief Dave Draovitch. "In law enforcement, we must address safety concerns for both those who are unhoused and the broader community. This ordinance provides us with a tool to hold individuals accountable and to address complaints we've received from the public."

The proposed ordinance prohibits encampments with fires, tents and furniture that cannot be easily transported by an individual. "This gives the Police Department the tools to give notice for the property to be removed and a process for that removal after 24 hours that we do not have presently," explained City Attorney Jannelle Combs in a memo to the City Commission. "This protects the unhoused and reduces liability for the City."

In addition, the ordinance bans sleeping on public sidewalks, streets, alleys or doorways, ensuring these public spaces remain safe for public use.

Bismarck-Burleigh Public Health Director Renae Moch emphasized the importance of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for all residents. "The health and safety of our community is always our top priority," said Moch. "Camping in areas not suited for habitation poses significant public health concerns, including issues with sanitation and the spread of infectious disease. We need a coordinated response to address these risks, ensuring everyone can access safe and stable living conditions."

Bismarck Mayor Mike Schmitz echoed the need for a community-wide effort to address homelessness. "Creating lasting change in Bismarck requires all of us working together. We need to shift our focus from giving money to panhandlers and instead support the local nonprofit organizations that provide essential services to individuals experiencing homelessness. Our community must address the root causes of homelessness: addiction and mental health issues. The City of Bismarck is leading conversations through our Public Health Director, who is collaborating with community stakeholders to find real, long-term solutions to these complex issues."

The public hearing on the ordinance will be held on October 8 at the next regular City Commission meeting. This public hearing allows the community to provide feedback on the proposed ordinance. Following the hearing, the City Commission is expected to vote on whether to adopt the ordinance.