Broken Arrow proposes ordinance to ticket or arrest people camping in public spaces

Broken Arrow City Councilors discuss a new ordinance that would allow police officers to arrest or ticket someone who is camping out in a public place or on public property.

Councilors say there have been problems with people camping on the property of people who live out of town.

What does the ordinance entail?

If someone is camping out on private property or a public place like a public sidewalk, parking lot, or park, a police officer can give them a written warning.

"The procedure is (that) the police department would provide notice to the person who is located there the requirement to have that written permission," said Trevor Dennis, Broken Arrow City Attorney.

After the first written warning, someone breaking the law could get ticketed or arrested.

What is on the warning?

The written warning will have information about the availability of medical treatment, mental health treatment, drug or alcohol addiction services, or general social services, including temporary shelter, other housing services, and other services that may be available.

What happens if someone is trespassing on private property without an ordinance in place?

Police have to get permission from the property owner first before making an arrest.

Is there a way someone can camp on public or private property?

If someone has proof of permission from the property owner, city council, or a city manager, then they can stay where they are.

When does the vote take place?

In two weeks, on Monday, August 18.

What do residents in favor of this ordinance think about it?

Abby Leet has lived in Broken Arrow her entire life and is keeping business owners in mind, and says this would be better for them.

"I feel like that's fair. I mean, the business owners are paying to be here, and you know, if they're in front of the business, clogging up traffic, that type of thing," said Abby Leet, Broken Arrow.

What do residents against this ordinance think about it?

"I think it's kind of incredibly cruel that you would want to take people in desperate situations who don't have any other options and charge them fines or put them in jail," said Anna Puhl, Broken Arrow resident.