DES MOINES, Iowa — A new public camping ordinance in Des Moines is set to officially take effect on Friday. However, the timeline for enforcement remains uncertain as city leaders continue to formulate necessary plans and procedures.
Central to the city’s strategy is the training of police officers in effectively enforcing the new rules. “Ordinance enforcement begins with encouraging voluntary compliance. We will remain vigilant for indicators that suggest the availability of additional resources, such as mental health support, which may address underlying issues,” stated Sgt. Paul Parizek of the Des Moines Police Department.
The ordinance imposes a $15 fine for individuals found sleeping in public spaces. City officials have clarified that those unable to pay the fine will not face incarceration. Additionally, the ordinance includes initiatives aimed at providing shelter, employment, and other essential services to those in need.
As city officials work on implementing the enforcement plan, local organizations assisting the homeless are fielding an increasing number of inquiries and concerns. “We are seeing a surge in individuals visiting the Homeless Resource Center. Our outreach efforts continue to encounter as many, if not more, people each week. The situation is not improving,” remarked Joe Stevens, CEO and co-founder of Joppa.
Joppa offers a range of services, including housing assistance, job placement, and benefits support. “Our focus remains on helping individuals secure housing as quickly as possible. We are collaborating with various housing agencies in the area and are also in the process of developing our own tiny home village to help lift people off the streets,” Stevens added.
Another significant resource in the community is the annual Des Moines Homeless Veterans Stand Down, an event organized by Nick Lemmo, who has been involved for 14 years. While he expresses concern about the implications of the new ordinance, he hopes it may prompt individuals to seek assistance sooner. “I would hope the city collaborates with local organizations to support the homeless population. It’s incomprehensible that we could strip someone of all their belongings and provide them only a 24-hour notice. For many, that is everything they possess,” Lemmo stated.
Addressing the multifaceted issue of homelessness in Des Moines necessitates a united effort from the entire community.