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Bismarck Releases Draft Ordinance Maintaining Jail Penalties for Unsafe Homeless Encampments

Updated Oct 25, 11:37 AM CT. Every fact below links to the source that reported it.

What the primary sources show

Bismarck released a new draft ordinance Thursday that retains mandatory minimum jail sentences for repeat camping violations, but only when camps pose public health or safety threats, unsanitary conditions, or block access. [Bismarck Tribune] [Bismarck Source]
City commissioners previously pulled a proposed revision to the camping ordinance from consideration. [Bismarck Source]
On the same day, commissioners voted to explore and secure a site for a low-barrier homeless shelter. [Bismarck Source]
Mayor Mike Schmitz proposed a city-owned, nonprofit-run low-barrier homeless shelter. [Bismarck Source]
Committee recommendations for the ordinance included tiered penalties proportional to violation severity and connections to mental health and addiction services. [Bismarck Source]

What timeline is expected for the city to secure a low-barrier shelter site and begin operations?
When will the new camping ordinance be voted on and implemented?
What is the estimated cost or funding source for the proposed city-owned shelter?

Bismarck Tribune: Emphasizes that the draft keeps mandatory jail penalties for repeat violations but narrows their scope to camps creating specific public safety, sanitation, or access problems. Read it → · Paywall
Bismarck Source: Provides broader context by detailing the city's dual approach of enforcement through the ordinance and supportive infrastructure through a proposed shelter, plus committee guidance on tiered penalties and service linkages. Read it →

701 News writes these summaries from the sources above and checks every sentence against them. Read the originals for the full reporting. Corrections