MANCHESTER, N.H. — The Board of Mayor and Aldermen of Manchester has swiftly enacted a new city ordinance to prohibit camping on city streets and in parks at all times. In a notable departure from standard procedure, the board suspended its typical rules to expedite the ban’s implementation without further committee votes or readings.
Previously, the ordinance restricted camping in public areas only between sunset and sunrise, and solely if overnight shelter spaces were available.
Mayor Jay Ruais introduced the proposal following a recent U.S. Supreme Court decision permitting municipalities to ban camping on public property, even when shelter spaces are open.
“We’re empowering police to use discretion in removing individuals who appear to be camping or setting up camp, including dismantling tarps along sidewalks,” Mayor Ruais stated in an interview with News 9 prior to the vote.
The decision followed over 90 minutes of public commentary, during which community members expressed varied opinions on the ban.
“I feel unsafe knowing that if I ever lose my home, the city will penalize me,” one speaker voiced in opposition.
Conversely, another speaker shared concerns about public safety: “My tenants fear walking to their parking lot due to harassment and witnessing crimes; my neighbors are suffering.”
The new ordinance marks a significant policy change aimed at addressing homelessness and public safety concerns within Manchester, eliciting both support and dissent from residents.