In a significant shift for Anchorage, the Assembly has passed a new ordinance aimed at addressing vagrancy on public lands. The ordinance, officially known as AO 2025-74, was approved with a narrow 7-5 vote and will make it illegal to camp on public property within the city’s limits. This decision is seen as a major victory for the conservative minority in Anchorage, as it aims to restore order in parks and municipal areas plagued by encampments.
Under this new law, unauthorized camping is designated as a Class B misdemeanor, meaning offenders could face police action, fines, or even jail time. The Anchorage Police are set to enforce the ordinance within 30 days, responsible for removing campsites and issuing citations to those in violation.
Supporters of the measure highlighted the need to ensure public access to parks and trails, which have reportedly been increasingly transformed into persistent encampments. Recently, Anchorage city officials removed over 744,000 pounds of debris, including stolen goods, from one of the most affected areas, Davis Park. Concerns have been raised about safety in some parks and trails, especially for vulnerable groups such as unarmed women and unaccompanied minors.
While proponents celebrate this legislative action as a step toward improved public safety and order, some Assembly members expressed dissent. They cautioned against criminalizing homelessness without adequate shelter alternatives. Critics argue that many individuals choose to live outdoors to avoid rules imposed by shelters.
Importantly, as part of the ordinance, the city is required to monitor and report on shelter capacity and availability, ensuring that enforcement actions are transparent and avoid exacerbating the homelessness crisis. Anchorage is utilizing recent legal precedents, including a US Supreme Court ruling, to support the legal validity of this ordinance, which emphasizes regulating conduct rather than targeting individuals based solely on their homeless status.
This development marks a pivotal moment for Anchorage, reflecting the ongoing debates surrounding homelessness and public space management. As the city navigates these challenges, there may be opportunities for collaborative solutions that address both public safety and the needs of the homeless population.