Summit, NJ Proposes Controversial Ordinance on Homelessness
SUMMIT, NEW JERSEY – A new proposal in Summit has the potential to reshape how homelessness is addressed in the community. The city’s government is considering a controversial ordinance that would penalize individuals for sleeping, camping, or storing personal belongings in public spaces, even though the number of unhoused individuals in the area is relatively low.
Details of the Proposed Ordinance
Introduced during a recent city council meeting, the proposed legislation could lead to fines reaching up to $2,000 or possible jail time of up to 90 days for violators. Despite only five reported unhoused individuals in the city, officials are taking a firm stance, arguing that public spaces must remain unobstructed.
Community Response
The proposal has ignited substantial debate, particularly around the implications of criminalizing homelessness. Richard Uniacke, president of Bridges Outreach, expressed concerns, stating, “If you make it illegal for someone to fall asleep on a bench, that doesn’t actually do anything to resolve their homelessness.” He emphasized that the root solution to homelessness lies in providing permanent housing.
Moreover, Uniacke noted that such measures could hinder outreach efforts, complicating caseworkers’ abilities to assist those in need, particularly when essential identification documents are lost during enforcement actions.
Context and Backstory
Summit is recognized as one of New Jersey’s wealthiest communities, and until now, it has not grappled significantly with homelessness. The recent push for stricter measures aligns with a national trend, spurred by a U.S. Supreme Court decision that upheld a similar law in Oregon banning the use of basic shelter items like blankets and boxes by homeless individuals.
Future Developments
The Summit City Council is set to revisit the proposed ordinance on April 22. As discussions continue, the fate of the measure remains uncertain, pending further public feedback and legal considerations.
The Bigger Picture
As homelessness in New Jersey is reportedly increasing—24% higher according to the last Point-in-Time count—many advocates urge local governments to focus on providing supportive housing rather than punitive measures. Rising costs of living alongside increasing evictions further complicate the crisis, making it imperative to explore compassionate and effective solutions to homelessness.
