A proposed solution to the escalating issue of homelessness, known as “Safe Sleep Villages,” is garnering attention nationwide. Initially introduced in San Francisco in 2021, these tent encampments have sprung up in cities across the U.S., offering tents, toilets and showers to those in need. Despite their intended purpose as a swift remedy, concerns are mounting as the cost per tent at these sites surpasses that of traditional brick-and-mortar shelters.
In Los Angeles, the expenses associated with setting up fencing, bathrooms and staffing facilities for a single site reach approximately $4 million, with an estimated annual operating cost of $3 million.
“Safe Sleep Villages” advocates emphasize the immediate assistance these shelters provide. Kirkpatrick Tyler, chief of government and community affairs for Urban Alchemy, highlighted the significance of Safe Sleep Villages in allowing individuals to stay connected to a familiar environment that is service-rich, safe and supported. These interventions are praised for their speed and lack of bureaucratic hurdles, according to Tyler.
Amidst these discussions, the Supreme Court is deliberating on a case that could shape how cities respond to uncontrolled tent encampments recognized as hazardous to both residents and communities.
In the case of Grants Pass, Oregon v. Johnson, the central question before the justices revolves around whether enforcing laws on camping in public areas constitutes ‘cruel and unusual punishment’ under the Eighth Amendment. The 9th Circuit Court of Appeals asserts that such enforcement is indeed unconstitutional, arguing that officials lack the authority to jail or fine homeless individuals for sleeping outdoors.
Officials from western cities covered by the 9th Circuit expressed frustration, claiming that the ruling restricts their ability to address the issue effectively. California city leaders underscored the challenges in safeguarding the health and safety of their constituents.
California Gov. Gavin Newsom, D, welcomed a Supreme Court ruling on Grants Pass, Oregon v. Johnson, hoping to end delays caused by lawsuits that impede efforts to clear encampments and provide services to those in need.
California, home to 28% of the nation’s total homeless population, has allocated a $750 million grant, known as the Encampment Resolution Fund, to clear uncontrolled encampments and secure long-term housing for individuals.
Newsom emphasized that the approach goes beyond eviction, aiming to resolve underlying conditions. The date for the justices to hear the Grants Pass case remains undetermined.
An earlier version of this video report incorrectly identified the Supreme Court case Grants Pass, Oregon v. Johnson as Johnson v. Grants Pass, Oregon. SAN has updated the video with the correct case name and regrets the error.
