BLUEFIELD, W.Va. – Anyone camping on public property or sleeping on streets in the City of Bluefield may soon face a fine if they refuse assistance in finding suitable housing or help for any issues they may have.
The Bluefield Board of Directors gave first reading today to a proposed ordinance to implement fines and possible jail time for repeat offenders. But in each instance, the violator would be offered help to avoid a fine.
City Attorney David Kersey said he studied similar ordinances around the state and concluded that in the first encounter the person would be given a warning, along with an explanation of the ordinance and be advised of options available to help avoid sleeping on public property.
The second offense may be a fine in City Court, but the violator would again be advised of possible help, including a substance abuse assessment and other programs available. If the person accepts help, the citation could be dismissed.
A third offense would mean a fine and possible jail time, but again help would be offered and, if accepted, a dismissal is possible.
The board approved the first reading and it will go to a second and final reading in a future meeting.
Board member Peter Taylor, who is also a board member of Bluefield Union Mission, said the Mission has a limited number of temporary overnight facilities available for people who need housing, but those are filled every night.
Craig Hammond, executive director of Bluefield Union Mission, said the ordinance is needed.
“I think it’s a good ordinance. I support it wholeheartedly. And I believe any homeless problem that we have in this area, I believe the Bluefield Union Mission is equipped to handle it on site and off site with facilities.”
People can help by providing donations, which can be dropped off at the Mission on Bluefield Avenue or by mail at 2203 Bluefield Avenue, Bluefield, W.Va. 24701.
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