San Diego is grappling with a significant increase in homelessness, prompting city council members to consider a proposed ban on encampments on public property. Councilman Stephen Whitburn's proposal, scheduled for debate, aims to prohibit camping when shelter beds are available, with a blanket ban near sensitive areas like schools and parks, regardless of shelter availability.

Mayor Todd Gloria supports the proposal, emphasizing the importance of safe and sanitary public spaces. He has stressed the need for accessible sidewalks, parks, and canyons, stating that these areas are not intended for居住or unsanitary practices.

This discussion follows a recent report by the San Diego Regional Task Force on Homelessness revealing a 32% surge in the unsheltered homeless population, totaling approximately 3,300 individuals. A separate count by the Downtown San Diego Partnership identified 2,100 individuals living on downtown streets and in vehicles, a record high for the area.

Data indicates that 87% of the city's 3,000 emergency shelter beds are currently occupied. Mayor Gloria's shelter strategy includes a Safe Sleeping Program, providing over 500 tents at designated locations, including near Balboa Park. The mayor expects individuals to utilize these resources when available.

The proposed ban's implementation is anticipated to be gradual and vary across neighborhoods. Existing regulations, stemming from a prior legal settlement, permit individuals to be on sidewalks between 9 p.m. and 5:30 a.m. in certain areas.

While the plan has garnered support for its potential to connect individuals with shelter and resources, homeless advocates have voiced concerns, labeling it "heartless" and questioning the capacity of shelters to handle the increased demand. They also raise doubts about the plan's overall effectiveness.

Proponents argue the strategy is compassionate, offering essential support and protection from the inherent dangers of street living. San Diego joins other cities nationwide seeking solutions to address the growing homelessness crisis. Recently, Portland's city council voted to restrict daytime camping in public spaces, requiring campsites to be dismantled between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m., with a complete ban near schools, parks, and major thoroughfares.