Fairfax Town Council introduces strict anti-camping ordinance amid homelessness concerns

The Fairfax Town Council took a significant step towards addressing homelessness during a special meeting on December 18, 2024, by introducing an ordinance aimed at regulating camping on public property. The proposed changes include specific anti-camping language that aligns with recent legal rulings, reflecting a growing concern over public safety and community well-being.

The ordinance, which is set for a second reading on January 9, 2025, outlines areas where camping will be prohibited, including public sidewalks, bus shelters, and locations near schools. Council members emphasized the importance of providing adequate notice before any encampment cleanups, ensuring that personal belongings are documented and stored safely for retrieval by their owners. This approach aims to balance enforcement with compassion, as the town continues to collaborate with county officials to facilitate housing solutions for unhoused residents.

Council Member Kohler raised concerns about the ordinance's language, questioning whether it might inadvertently criminalize brief instances of sleeping in public spaces, such as park benches. The council clarified that the intent is not to penalize individuals who may momentarily rest but to address more significant safety risks associated with unauthorized encampments.

Public comments during the meeting reflected a range of opinions. Some residents expressed support for the ordinance, citing safety concerns for children and the need for a cleaner community. Others criticized the approach, arguing that it fails to address the root causes of homelessness and could lead to further marginalization of vulnerable populations.

As the council prepares for the next reading, the discussions highlight the ongoing challenge of balancing community safety with the need for humane treatment of those experiencing homelessness. The outcome of this ordinance could set a precedent for how Fairfax navigates these complex issues in the future.