Las Vegas City Wire

On November 6, 2024, the Las Vegas City Council updated an ordinance intended to connect the city's unhoused population with services. The primary aim is not to cite or arrest homeless individuals but to offer them assistance to avoid living in unsafe and unsanitary street conditions.

The revised ordinance makes it a misdemeanor to camp or sleep in public rights-of-way, such as sidewalks or streets, both downtown and in residential areas. This change aligns with a July 2024 Supreme Court decision (City of Grants Pass, Oregon vs. Johnson) by removing previous language that enforcement could only occur if shelter beds were available.

Law enforcement can now inform individuals about their presence in restricted areas and direct them to resources like the Courtyard Homeless Resource Center. The city has faced hygiene and sanitation challenges due to homeless populations in public spaces near businesses and food processing locations.

Las Vegas remains committed to connecting homeless individuals with services to break the cycle of homelessness. In 2023, there were 11,695 unduplicated service accesses at the Courtyard. This center exemplifies a public-private partnership offering various services including housing, medical care, legal aid, employment opportunities, and more.

Key aspects of the ordinance include directing people to existing resources like the Courtyard Homeless Resource Center. The city spends $2.7 million annually on homeless cleanup efforts. Similar ordinances exist in at least 107 cities nationwide. By transitioning individuals from streets into shelters, the ordinance aims to enhance community health and safety while addressing public concerns about property values and neighborhood safety.

Concerns have been raised about criminalizing homelessness. However, "while the ordinance is applicable to all citizens," its goal is not criminalization but rather addressing certain behaviors. Arrests or citations are discretionary for officers who use enforcement as a last resort when someone resists assistance.

Questions also arise regarding affordable housing availability and shelter space sufficiency. While acknowledging these issues, Las Vegas emphasizes ongoing efforts for immediate health and safety concerns until more housing becomes available.

Some homeless individuals may prefer remaining nomadic over using shelters; however, the city seeks engagement with those wanting services while maintaining community welfare.

The city provides restroom facilities at locations like the Courtyard to address sanitation needs for those without access.