Drafter
Clerk 07/12/2021
Title
A MOTION requesting the executive establish rules or guidelines for encampment removal on public property in King County, and to develop a report.
Body
WHEREAS, the county is responsible for maintaining public properties under county ownership or interest in order to meet the needs of the entire community, and
WHEREAS, camping on public property, including erecting tents and temporary structures, is a public safety and health concern that interferes with and obstructs the intended use of the land, and
WHEREAS, camping on public property is a public health concern when inadequate access to sanitation and hygiene facilities increases the risk and spread of infectious diseases to unhoused individuals and the broader community, and
WHEREAS, the homelessness crisis continues to grow in the county, resulting in increased use of public spaces for camping, and
WHEREAS, the county and its partners are working to provide access to permanent and safe housing for all residents, including unsheltered individuals, through various programs and funding mechanisms, and
WHEREAS, the immediate impacts of homelessness is not being addressed through county programs, and
WHEREAS, interim measures are needed to address the immediate public health and safety impacts of unauthorized encampments for both unsheltered persons and the broader community, and
WHEREAS, the county has not established uniform standards for encampments on public property and when removal of encampments is appropriate;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT MOVED by the Council of King County:
A. The council requests that the executive establish county rules or guidelines related to removal of encampments on public property including specific consideration of public health and safety risks, and develop a report that summarizes any changes. The county rules or guidelines should address:
1. Standards for health and safety conditions that warrant clearing or removal of an encampment. ...
Click here for full text