Council discusses handing housing service pamphlets to officers and court for people contacted under camping ordinance

An unnamed council member told the Jan. 27 study session that recent discussions with Judge Greer and Chief Hassad found people contacted or arrested under the public camping ordinance were not routinely receiving resource referrals. The council member offered pamphlets from DSHS and asked whether the city could provide those materials to court staff and officers.

Other members suggested the county already distributes some materials, and councilors expressed support for providing resources. Staff agreed to raise the matter with leadership in a morning meeting, to follow up with county partners and to circulate the pamphlet electronically to council and staff. No formal motion was recorded; the item was a request for follow-up and staff action.