Summary
The Board revisited a proposed ban on camping on public property, modeled on the Grants Pass, Oregon ordinance. After lengthy discussion with the city attorney and police chief, they couldn't agree to bring it back for a vote — so the city still has no such rule on the books.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 2
- Last 30 days
- 0
Last discussed Jul 13, 2026.
Impact analysis
The city spends staff time and contractor money clearing encampments from private property, with cleanup costs billed to owners.
Would give police and code enforcement another tool to address complaints about sidewalk camping if ever adopted.
Homeless individuals would face enforcement if they camp or sleep on public property.
Mentions & discussions (2)
Property Owners Appeal Board - Regular Meeting - Jul 13, 2026
Enforcement staff say homeless encampments are scattered across Fort Smith — behind Walgreens on Rogers, Zero Street, the riverfront, and wooded areas near Mill Creek — and vacant homes are being squatted in. The city's homeless committee of nonprofits and city offices meets quarterly, and a new 30-unit transitional housing project is expected to help next year.
Board of Directors - Study Session - Mar 10, 2026
The Board revisited a proposed ban on camping on public property, modeled on the Grants Pass, Oregon ordinance. After lengthy discussion with the city attorney and police chief, they couldn't agree to bring it back for a vote — so the city still has no such rule on the books.
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