DULUTH, MN (Northern News Now) – Controversy surrounding a new proposed public safety ordinance in Duluth led to a packed City Council Chamber for the meeting on Monday night.
More than 60 people spoke about the measure, most asking councilors to reconsider and vote down Mayor Roger Reinert’s new ordinance that would make camping on public property worthy of a misdemeanor.
The proposed ordinance, if approved by the council, would make offenses such as outdoor camping on city property worthy of 90 days in jail or a $1,000 fine.
Among those speaking was CHUM Executive Director John Cole who said they cannot support the criminalization of people who are un-housed.
Many who stepped up to the podium Monday night called the ordinance unfair considering the current housing crisis and asked the council to take their concerns under consideration before making a vote.
A vote on the proposal is expected at the end of the month.
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