The Board of County Commissioners has granted the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office the ability to clear homeless encampments, regardless of shelter availability. This decision follows the Supreme Court’s ruling last June, which overturned a lower court decision that had blocked the enforcement of camping bans unless sufficient shelter space was provided.

Spokane County Sheriff John Nowels emphasized that the county’s policy prioritizes voluntary compliance and connecting individuals with services before resorting to the justice system.

“This gives us a tool, one that we don’t want to have to wield if we don’t have to,” Sheriff Nowels said, according to The Center Square. “But it gives us a tool to use if we need to.”

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Spokane deputies gain authority to dismantle homeless encampments

Supporters of the amendment argue it is necessary to ensure public health, safety, and access to rights-of-way for all residents. However, opponents view it as another way of “criminalizing homelessness,” especially if shelters are overwhelmed.

Earlier this week, activists, including Wendy Fishburne, vice president of the East Spokane Business Association, began a “crisis walk” from Spokane City Hall to the county campus. The group, which includes business leaders, service providers, and concerned citizens, marched before sunrise across the river, passing neighbors sleeping on the streets. Their goal was to call for coordinated action from both the city and county governments to address the homelessness crisis, particularly as people continue to die from exposure to the cold.

While the commissioners supported the amendment, they made it clear that it is not a solution to homelessness. Instead, it is an additional tool while the county continues to invest in housing, treatment services, and regional solutions alongside neighboring communities.

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