WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) — Two things happened in Wichita on Tuesday that could impact unhoused people. First, the Wichita City Council gave final approval to a stricter illegal camping ordinance. Then, the city announced it would help care for pets so unhoused people can stay at the emergency winter shelter, which doesn’t allow pets.
The ordinance
The illegal camping ordinance allows the city to immediately clean up an illegal campsite in front of a doorway, on a sidewalk or walking path, near a bridge, or at a bus shelter.
The city can clean up illegal campsites in other locations with only 48 hours’ notice, compared to the previous 72 hours.
Citations would only be given if a shelter space is available for the illegal camper. Penalties could be up to 30 days in jail or a fine of up to $200, lower than the previous $500. The person could choose community service at the rate of $10 an hour instead.
Wichita requires cleared sidewalks, but no deadline except for downtown
Reaction
The city council approved the ordinance on the first reading in December. Tuesday was the second reading to make it official. It was part of a consent agenda that included many other items. The council usually votes on the consent agenda items with one vote unless a council member asks for one of the items to be pulled.