GP Council Sets Standards for the New Temporary Campgrounds
The Grants Pass City Council convened an emergency meeting Wednesday night to deal with the details of service to be provided to the unhoused population that have been moved from city parks to the two designated camping areas. They were also met with a chamber filled to capacity with citizens providing over an hour of public comments.
The council passed a motion to provide the approved city campsites with standard sanitation facilities, cigarette collection cans, and doggie bags with a receptacle for that waste plus non-profit organizations would be allowed to provide potable water, park benches and approved shade structures. The motion was approved on a 7 to 1 vote.
Council then approved allowed time to remain in the park expanding the time allowed to one week before citations may be issued with a three-day time limit to move. The vote was 4 to 4 with Mayor Bristol breaking the tie with a yes vote.
The cost for the temporary services is estimated to be $280,000.
Multiple councilors expressed belief that the city should consult with businesses neighboring the “J” Street campground that have experienced theft and vandalism as to a solution that would likely include some fencing. The council was informed temporary fencing for the facility would cost $1200 monthly.
