Seminole County faces potential lawsuits after implementing a public camping ban affecting the homeless population
Oviedo: Seminole County is gearing up for some legal battles over its new camping ban. This law makes it illegal for homeless folks to camp or sleep outside. It’s a big deal because it opens the door for lawsuits against cities that don’t enforce it.
The county recently passed an ordinance allowing the sheriff’s office to issue trespass warnings to those camping on county property. If they ignore the warnings, they could face arrest. So far, no warnings or citations have been issued.
The sheriff’s office is trying to work with local shelters and social services to help tackle homelessness while still enforcing the ban. Interestingly, the law doesn’t apply to people sleeping in legally parked cars or in state parks.
Commissioner Bob Dallari raised a good point about making sure people know where county property ends and state property begins. It’s important for those affected to understand the boundaries.
Now, here’s the kicker: while the law allows for designated camping areas, no one in Central Florida has set one up yet. So, if homeless individuals can’t camp outside, where are they supposed to go? The only shelter in Seminole County is the Rescue Outreach Mission, which is quite a distance from some areas.
Winter Springs Commissioner Cade Resnick mentioned that if people are found sleeping on the streets, they’re taken to the Rescue Outreach Mission. But that shelter only has 110 beds and is located in Sanford, which is a bit of a trek for those in need.
Oviedo Mayor Megan Sladek expressed her frustration, calling the situation a “hot mess.” She’s worried that moving people far away from their jobs could lead to them losing their jobs, which just adds to the cycle of homelessness.
She suggested that Oviedo should consider easing restrictions on housing arrangements to help address the high cost of living. It’s a tough situation, and she hopes no one tries to sue the government for trying to keep homeless people out of sight.
According to the latest count, there are 420 people experiencing homelessness in Seminole County, which is a 53% increase from last year. The number of unsheltered individuals has more than doubled, which is concerning.
Rescue Outreach Mission has seen people from Oviedo using its services, but finding affordable housing in those areas is a challenge. The executive director pointed out that the rising rent prices are a significant factor in the increase of homelessness.
On top of that, the Rescue Outreach Mission is facing a $500,000 budget shortfall this year. They’re looking for more local government support to help cover the gap, especially since federal funding is drying up.
Chris Ham, the executive director, is hopeful about securing additional funding from local municipalities. He’s been proactive in seeking help, but so far, neither Winter Springs nor Oviedo has stepped up with financial support.
Ham is determined to make it work, saying they’re doing their best to save money without cutting too deep. It’s a tough road ahead, but they’re committed to finding solutions.
