The City is responsible for managing public streets, sidewalks, and other public property within the boundaries of the City. This duty includes keeping streets and sidewalks open and free from potential obstructions that could cause injury as well as preventing misuse of and damage to public property that can jeopardize the health, safety, and general welfare of the public. A potential source of public property obstruction, misuse, and damage is outdoor camping in unpermitted areas.
The Cities of Roanoke and Bristol passed ordinances to prohibit camping on public property in unpermitted locations earlier this year. Passing a similar ordinance in Danville would give the Police and other City staff tools to prevent potential issues related to unpermitted camping, including street and sidewalk obstructions as well as damage to City property, and dangerous conditions faced by unpermitted campers. The proposed ordinance would also require any police officer enforcing the ordinance to provide information on available shelters and other forms of assistance available to persons in need. This information would be printed on ticket books and could easily be given out to help direct persons in need to safe facilities. |