The City Council voted unanimously Oct. 7 to keep the Eaton & Cohasset Alternative Camping Site in place and directed staff to return with information on enhancing security and exploring new rules to improve neighborhood safety.
For example, the Council could look into the current code of conduct and possible monitoring options. The motion also includes considering minor facility upgrades at the site.
Councilmembers expressed two main views on what “site improvement” should mean. One focuses on investing more resources in enforcement and monitoring; the other emphasizes upgrading facilities and living conditions.
Councilmember Mike O’Brien initially proposed the motion that reflects the first view, and Councilmember Bryce Goldstein later amended it to include “minor changes to the site that can help keep people there instead of wandering off.”
The meeting drew many residents from the neighborhood that had been proposed as a potential relocation site. They voiced concerns about public safety, fire risks and possible declines in property values.
Michael Morgan, a resident of the campsite, told ChicoSol after the meeting that he would like to have a representative for the campsite who could attend Council meetings to share campers’ stories and help the public better understand their experiences and who they are. — story and video by Yucheng Tang