The Boston City Council passed an ordinance that goes into effect Wednesday banning homeless encampments in the city. The ordinance specifically focuses on the area around Massachusetts Avenue and Melnea Cass Boulevard, known as "Mass and Cass."
In that area, local media sources highlight, the homeless presence has increased. Democratic Mayor Michelle Wu's proposal authorizes police officers to remove tents from the street. However, it details that officers must first offer shelter, transportation and a place to store belongings to those who are living in the encampments.
"The proposed ordinance will establish a prohibition against unsanctioned camping with a tent, tarp, or similar temporary structure in the public right-of-way or on public property, provided that individuals are offered shelter and transportation," the official city website explained.
Boston mayor: 'We cannot let that stand'
"At its core, what we are talking about is health, safety, comfort, and dignity. No one in the city of Boston should be living in a tent on the street, especially as the temperatures fall. With no running water, no heat, the transmission of illnesses given the conditions of living outside … in a city with so many resources, we cannot let that stand," Wu explained in a statement during a press conference, per Boston.com.
Likewise, the ordinance allows police officers to monitor the site daily after the camps are eliminated. “The ordinance will provide clear authority and a path for our officers to keep the individuals who are struggling with homelessness, mental health and substance use disorders safe. In addition, this will provide officers a tool to better serve the residents and businesses whose daily lives and safety have been disproportionately impacted by the situation in the area," said Boston Police Commissioner Michael A. Cox.
