- Salt Lake City debates a proposed ordinance tightening camping restrictions on public property.
- Critics argue it criminalizes homelessness while supporters cite safety concerns.
- City Council could vote as early as May 19; discussions highlight complex homelessness and safety issues.
SALT LAKE CITY — Dozens burned the midnight oil, staying late Tuesday night to voice their concerns about a proposed Salt Lake City ordinance that would tighten camping restrictions in Utah’s capital city.
Many spoke in favor of the measure in a public hearing that lasted nearly three hours, generating insults, rants and tears.
“We have our work cut out for us,” said Salt Lake City Councilman Chris Wharton, summarizing the situation after the lengthy and passionate debate.
What the city is proposing
Overnight camping in public parks and streets is already illegal in Salt Lake City, but the proposed ordinance would extend that prohibition to other public properties, such as sidewalks and park strips. It would also apply to people camping in vehicles — something city officials say has become a growing problem…