The City of Fort Myers is now discussing public sleeping and camping enforcement two months before a big deadline. An ordinance is in the works and has to be done so the city can avoid being penalized for not complying with state law.
The council is considering an ordinance mirroring a law prohibiting people from public camping and sleeping.
Watch to see what the proposed ordinance says:
The City of Fort Myers is discussing Public Sleeping and Camping enforcement
A homeless advocate says he understands the potential ordinance, but shares what needs to happen moving forward with enforcement.
Willie Joe Shot Miller is homeless and advocates for those in the same situation. He believes rehabilitated buildings should be shelters.
“You got the old fire station that could be,” says Shot Miller. “It’s going to be coming up for bid. Our taxpayer’s dollars paid for that.”
City Council says it’s leaning on the County to explore shelter options, though funding and suitable properties are challenges.