The City of Austin has developed a phased process to implement and enforce the Proposition B ordinances when they go into effect on May 11.
The plan has been developed through a coordinated effort among multiple departments—including the Austin Police Department, the Homeless Strategy Division, the Homeless Outreach Street Team, the Downtown Austin Community Court, Parks and Recreation Department, Austin Resource Recovery and others. The plan is focused on a safe and humane approach that helps persons experiencing homelessness comply with the new ordinances.
It is important for Austinites to understand that implementation of the camping restrictions will require a process that will extend over several weeks. The objectives are to emphasize outreach and education, to prioritize health and safety, and to connect persons to appropriate resources and services.
Phase one will begin on May 11 and will entail 30 days of community engagement and education, during which APD will provide available resources and verbal warnings, except in the case of imminent threats to health or safety.
During the 30-day Phase Two, APD will begin to issue written warnings and initial citations.
During Phase Three, APD may initiate arrests and/or encampment clearances in situations where compliance has not been achieved after a citation has been issued.
During Phase Four, citations and arrests will continue as necessary. APD will coordinate with City homelessness outreach teams, and, wherever possible, will provide information about alternative options such as storing personal items, alternate campsites, available shelter, and other resources.
All citations issued for violation of the new ordinances will be directed to the Downtown Austin Community Court (DACC), where personnel evaluate each case and develop disposition plans that include connecting individuals to needed social services and/or assigning them to community service.
Virtual News Conference on Implementing Homelessness Ordinances: 12 p.m. Tuesday, May 11
City Manager Spencer Cronk and departmental representatives will host a virtual news conference at noon on Tuesday, May 11, to update the community on the implementation plan.
WHAT: Virtual News Conference
WHEN: 12 p.m.-12:50 p.m., Tuesday, May 11
WHO: Austin City Manager Spencer Cronk, Austin Interim Police Chief Joseph Chacon, City of Austin Homeless Strategy Officer Dianna Grey
TO ACCESS THE VIDEO FEED:
If you have questions, or need more information, contact the Communications and Public Information Office at media@austintexas.gov.
