PRESQUE ISLE, Maine (WAGM) — On Tuesday night, a workshop was held to review a proposed camping ordinance for Presque Isle, driven by rising concerns about homelessness in the city.
The discussion about the ordinance began in June. Following public feedback against the initial proposal, the city council organized the workshop to address community concerns and consider revisions.
On September 10, 2024, a revised draft was introduced. The new ordinance would prohibit camping or sleeping on public property, including sidewalks, benches, and doorways. According to the draft, individuals found camping would receive a 24-hour notice to vacate the area. Additionally, the police would have the authority to manage personal belongings left behind.
Police Chief Chris Hayes voiced concerns during the meeting. He argued that 24 hours might be insufficient for connecting homeless individuals with necessary resources and expressed worries about the handling of personal property by law enforcement.
Chief Hayes suggested that while an ordinance could provide some benefits, it should be more “empathetic” to address the complex issues faced by the homeless population. He emphasized the need for a long-term solution and a designated place for people to go.
“The opioid epidemic, homelessness, and mental health issues are visible every day,” Chief Hayes said. “This ordinance alone won’t solve these problems. We need a more sustainable approach.”
He also addressed public concerns about homelessness, suggesting that the situation might become the “new normal” globally. “Finding a solution could take years or even decades,” he added. “We’re working on it and aim to ensure that neither the homeless nor the citizens of Presque Isle feel unsafe.”
Chief Hayes also clarified a common misconception: the majority of people living unsheltered are local residents, not outsiders. “These are individuals I’ve known for 15 to 18 years,” he said. “They are part of our community and are struggling.”
Experts in homeless services echoed Chief Hayes’ concerns. Shelby Wilson, the Hub 9 Homeless Service Response Coordinator for Aroostook County, noted that enforcing the ordinance without providing alternative housing solutions would be ineffective. “We need to address community needs first before implementing such measures,” Wilson said.
Both Chief Hayes and City Councilor Hank King, along with experts in homelessness, recommended delaying the ordinance until more comprehensive solutions are proposed.
Councilor Kevin Freeman proposed accepting the ordinance as written, but because the meeting was a workshop, no formal decisions were made.
The ordinance will undergo a second public reading according to city code before any final decisions are made.