(GRAND FORKS, ND) – Grand Forks city leaders are discussing a camping ordinance for their city.
At Monday night’s Committee of the Whole meeting, City Attorney Dan Gaustad told city council members that the ordinance they’re considering is similar to the one enacted by the Fargo City Commission. He said the ordinance would be enforceable by any sworn officer.
There is no penalty clause, Gaustad said.
“When there is no penalty clause, then we defer to City Code 9-0502, which is a non-criminal sanction fine up to $1,000,” he said.
City Council member Tricia Berg told council members that some may view the move as criminalizing homelessness.
Police Chief Jason Freedman said the ordinance has been in works for some time. He says there has been an increase in violent behavior in recent weeks.
The Grand Forks City Council will discuss the ordinance next week.
