Colorado Springs council talks potential camping ban near waterways

City leaders in Colorado Springs are looking to crack down on people camping near waterways throughout the city saying it’s to protect the public’s health.

During Monday’s City council work session, members discussed an ordinance that would ban people from camping within a 100 feet of any waterway. Council member Tom Strand helped come up with the ordinance. He says it’s not about forcing people out, it’s about cleaning up our creeks and other water sources. “The key to this is not to move people away from their campsites but the key is to protect peoples health and safety,” Strand says.

Trash scattered near the creek and high levels of E. Coli found in the water believed to be caused in part by homeless defecating in the water were some of the topics discussed at the session. Strand says, “by not allowing people to camp within a 100 feet of these waterways we’ll have less trash that falls into the water and obviously less bodily fluids.”

It’s also about keeping the population safe from flash floods and rising water. However, the fine offenders would have to pay could be up to $2,500. Money many homeless don’t have. When we asked some of the population if they would pay they said no. But Strand says that high cost won’t be the case for everyone. That if the ordinance passes, a judge would decide on a case by case basis. “More likely than not, there would be a small fine and community service,” Strand says.

The council has asked for more time to discuss options and other solutions. At least three council members say the ordinance targets the homeless population. They are also asking for input from the community.

Some members are worried if the ordinance does pass they could have a lawsuit on their hands. The other side of that is if something isn’t done to clean the water, the city could face an environmental lawsuit.