Seattle mayor OKs 'safe lots' where those living in vehicles can park them
Using emergency powers that allow him to bypass some planning and zoning approvals that ordinarily would be required, Seattle’s mayor has ordered two “safe lots” to be established on public property that will provide parking spaces for those living in their vehicles.
Up to 50 spaces will be available at two safe lots that will open within 30 days, Mayor Ed Murray announced Tuesday. Meanwhile, spaces will be provided at three other sites, the Seattle Times reports.
“These are not long-term solutions to end homelessness, but temporary locations that can be managed to provide a safer environment for those living on our streets and have less impact on our neighborhoods,” Murray said in a written statement provided to the newspaper. He has asked the city council to OK his plan.. He has asked the city council to OK his plan.
Garbage collection and social services will be provided at the sites, and a code of conduct will prohibit violence and the use of illegal drugs.
See also:
ABAJournal.com: “LA is rewriting law banning living in cars, after 9th Circuit rejected original ordinance”
ABA Journal: “Cities get mired in civil rights disputes in trying to deal with growing homeless populations”
