In response to a recent Supreme Court ruling allowing cities to crack down on illegal camping without providing shelter, Berkeley’s city council has voted to intensify its efforts to clear long-standing encampments. The council approved new legislation in an 8-1 vote on Tuesday, reflecting growing frustration over the homelessness crisis.
The new policy aims to address serious fire risks and imminent health hazards associated with encampments. It comes as the city faces mounting pressure from local businesses, including Fieldwork Brewing, Boichik Bagels, and Covenant Winery, which have filed a lawsuit seeking the removal of an encampment near Harrison Street and Eighth Street.