Missoula, MT — The Missoula City Council is reviewing potential changes to its urban camping ordinance, which was adopted in July but has drawn significant criticism from residents and advocacy groups. The ordinance, which limits camping to designated areas within the city, has sparked debate over its impact on public parks and neighborhoods.
The proposed changes aim to further restrict camping in the city and address concerns about public safety. The most notable revisions include:
- A complete ban on camping in all 56 of Missoula’s parks.
- The designation of temporary camping sites in alternative locations.
- A misdemeanor offense and a $50 fine for those found violating the camping restrictions.
However, some council members are suggesting a more lenient approach, including the introduction of a written warning for first-time offenders instead of an immediate fine.
David Moore, a registered agent for the group No Camp Missoula, spoke in favor of the amendments at the council meeting. He argued that removing camping from public parks is essential for the safety of children in the community. “Go forth with this amendment and let’s get them out of the parks for the safety of the children in this community,” Moore stated.
Opponents of the changes, however, believe the ordinance criminalizes homelessness and could worsen the situation for those already struggling. One critic, who did not wish to be named, said, “When you’re faced with an option, you can either try or do nothing. This council has found a mystical third option of making things worse.”
According to the latest data, Missoula has a homeless population of 644 individuals, many of whom are affected by the current restrictions. City council members are divided on how to balance public safety with the needs of the homeless community.
Council member Daniel Carlino addressed the issue in an interview with NBC Montana, suggesting additional amendments that would only enforce the camping ban if there were no adequate indoor shelter options available. He emphasized that the ordinance is focused specifically on regulating camping on city property and vehicles, with existing laws already addressing concerns such as public drug use and health issues in the parks.
“Hearing from constituents, it feels like people are worried about public drug use and pooping in the parks,” Carlino said. “None of that is spelled out in this ordinance. This ordinance is more about camping on city property and camping in your vehicles. Those other things are addressed through other laws we already have in the books.”
The council is expected to discuss and vote on the proposed amendments during Monday’s meeting, which is likely to continue the debate over the balance between maintaining public spaces and addressing homelessness in Missoula.
