Monday, September 23, 2024–10:51 p.m.

-David Crowder, WRGA News-

The Floyd County Commission is expected to vote on an ordinance addressing urban camping and the improper use of public areas when they meet on Tuesday.

Floyd County Public Safety Division Director John Blalock told the county’s public safety committee in August that following recent discussions regarding the homelessness issue in the city, the county was asked to look at putting some ordinances into place. The urban camping ordinance, which essentially mirrors the city ordinance, was put onto first reading during the commission’s September 10 meeting.

It would prohibit camping in public areas unless it is a designated campground or other area authorized by the county, and you can’t do it if it interferes with the ingress or egress of buildings, private property, or other public areas…..(C-JOHN3)…..Tuesday’s meeting will be held at the County Administration building located at 12 East 4th Avenue.

“That ordinance does require the police to warn and give an opportunity to cease before they take any enforcement action,” Blalock said. “A citation or arrest can only occur if a warning does not result in prompt compliance. It does allow for the confiscation of materials that are obviously being stored for camping in a location that is in violation of the ordinance.”

The caucus will begin at 4:00 p.m. followed by the regular meeting 6:00 p.m.