Rochester Moves Forward on Potential Public Space Camping Ban

Rochester, MN (KROC-AM News)- The Rochester City Council took a step towards implementing a camping ban in the city’s parks and on other city-owned property. 

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This past summer, Rochester Police Chief Jim Franklin proposed the city council implement a no camping rule in city parks. While acknowledging there’s not a “magical solution” to combat homelessness, Franklin said during the June listening session “I do believe and I do support a no camping ordinance alongside a robust offering of services and resources is an approach this city should try.” 

The potential ordinance has evolved from banning day time camping to prohibiting camping outright. Councilmembers voted 4-2 on moving the potential ordinance forward. 

The agenda item includes a draft ordinance that will be used to frame discussions on future city policy and protocols regarding camping in public spaces. 

Throughout the discussions, Rochester Police leaders have described the camping ban as an enforcement tool that would not change the current police department policy on homelessness. It instead would help incentivize homeless people to seek housing and resources and services to help, Franklin said. 

Supporters of the camping ban say it’s meant to specifically target homeless individuals who refuse to be connected with services available. Critics of the proposal point out the city’s homeless population outnumbers available beds and staffing capacity to provide services. 

The next step in the process is to draft a formal ordinance that will return to the council for a vote at a later time.