Santa Monica to Discuss Ban on Sleeping Bags in Public Areas

The Santa Monica City Council is considering amendments to its anti-camping ordinance, specifically targeting the use of pillows, blankets, and bedrolls by homeless individuals in public areas. This proposed change follows a series of violent incidents involving homeless individuals, raising public safety concerns. The council aims to maintain a distinction between camping and sleeping in public spaces, despite the potential removal of certain allowances for the homeless. City officials argue that the amendments are necessary to address the ongoing homelessness crisis, which has seen a slight decrease in the number of individuals experiencing homelessness in the area. The proposed changes stem from a July City Council meeting where officials sought to evaluate the municipal code in light of a recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling that allows cities to ban camping and sleeping in public spaces. This ruling has prompted cities like Long Beach to take action against homeless encampments, issuing citations for violations of anti-camping ordinances. The Santa Monica City Council has been urged to consider the implications of these changes, especially given the ongoing challenges related to homelessness and public safety. Despite the proposed amendments, city officials have clarified that they are not looking to ban sleeping in public places entirely, nor will they prohibit the use of blankets. The council has also been presented with alternative options, including taking no action or waiting to observe how other cities address similar issues. The ongoing discussions reflect the complexities of managing homelessness while ensuring public safety in a city that attracts many visitors. As the council prepares to address these amendments, the community remains divided on the best approach to handle the homelessness crisis. The situation continues to evolve, with city leaders balancing the need for public safety against the rights and needs of the homeless population.