CHILLICOTHE, Ohio – A packed council chamber bore witness to an emotionally charged Chillicothe City Council meeting Monday night, as residents voiced strong opposition to a proposed anti-camping ordinance that would criminalize sleeping in public spaces. The nearly two-hour public comment session also featured calls for government transparency, discussions on affordable housing, and support for social services, highlighting deep concerns about the city’s direction.
Homelessness Debate Sparks Public Outcry
More than a dozen speakers took the floor, many urging the council to reconsider the controversial ordinance, which they argued would disproportionately harm the city’s most vulnerable residents without providing real solutions.
“I hope you all still have open minds,” said Beverly, a local advocate, as she presented an alternative ordinance proposal emphasizing social services and housing assistance rather than punitive measures. Others, like Linda, condemned the proposal as cruel and ineffective, warning that similar laws in other cities have resulted in costly lawsuits and increased burdens on taxpayers.
Jamie, another speaker, laid out staggering statistics, emphasizing that “60% of Americans are just $400 away from homelessness.” He pointed out that Chillicothe’s existing shelters lack capacity to house the city’s unsheltered population, calling for increased investment in housing solutions rather than criminalization.
Riley, a formerly homeless resident, gave an emotional testimony about the realities of life on the streets. “I was never offered help. I was shamed,” he recalled. “I have friends who have died in silence.” His plea for a more compassionate approach to the city’s homelessness crisis was met with applause.
Despite the overwhelming opposition from the public, a motion by Councilmember Dustin to table the ordinance failed after no other council members seconded the proposal. The ordinance will proceed to the next agenda for further discussion.
Calls for Government Transparency
In addition to homelessness, several residents raised concerns about the accessibility of public records and city communications. AJ, a resident, criticized the city’s outdated website and social media presence, arguing that information about meetings is difficult to find. “It took me 10 minutes to find the email list for notifications,” he said. “How long is it going to take my grandmother?”
The discussion became tense when some council members insisted that recent meeting minutes had been uploaded to the city’s website, while others, including AJ, checked their phones and stated that they were still missing. The exchange highlighted ongoing frustrations with the city’s efforts to engage the public.
Support for Local Services and Programs
Beyond the heated debate over homelessness, speakers also called on the city to support community initiatives. John and Don, board members of the Assistance House, urged the council to approve $220,000 in funding to aid residents struggling with housing insecurity. “We’re trying to prevent people from becoming homeless,” John said. “There’s plenty of need.”
Jenny, a longtime advocate, spoke in defense of Head Start, a federal early childhood education program at risk of losing funding. She warned that cuts could leave thousands of children without access to essential learning opportunities. “If Congress doesn’t act, classrooms will close, and families will suffer,” she stressed, calling for local support.
Discussions on Housing and City Development
Tanis, a resident, proposed that the city explore incentives for landlords to participate in Section 8 housing programs. She described her own experience growing up in substandard housing and its impact on her health. “We are enabling slumlords,” she warned, calling for greater accountability in the rental market.
Several residents also raised concerns about gentrification, with some arguing that city development projects prioritize tourism over the needs of longtime residents. “We are a capable community,” one resident said. “We don’t need to depend on tourism alone.”
Bike Lanes, Parks, and Sustainability Efforts
In a lighter discussion, Neil, a local cycling advocate, urged the city to expand bike lanes, citing safety, environmental, and economic benefits. “Bike lanes reduce traffic congestion and pollution,” he argued, pointing out that many residents rely on cycling as a primary mode of transportation.
Donna addressed environmental concerns, advocating for more sustainability initiatives and raising questions about the city’s response to a potential avian flu outbreak in local waterfowl. City officials responded that they are following guidance from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources and will issue an update soon.
Council Proceeds with Legislative Agenda
Despite the intense public comment session, the council proceeded with its regular agenda, moving forward with 14 legislative items, including funding for street repairs, transit grants, and police training reimbursements.
A second reading of an ordinance to allocate funds for the Assistance House was heard, with supporters hopeful for its approval at the next meeting. Meanwhile, the controversial anti-camping ordinance remains under consideration, with another round of debate expected.
Meeting Adjournment and Next Steps
As the meeting wrapped up, councilwoman Kathy Payne thanked the public for their participation, acknowledging the record turnout. “We are listening,” she said.
With the next council session set for later this month, community members vowed to continue their advocacy efforts, making it clear that they will not back down from the issues that matter most.
What’s Next?
- The next City Council meeting is scheduled for March 24, 2025, where the anti-camping ordinance and other key issues will be revisited.
- Community members plan to continue organizing, with advocates urging more residents to attend meetings and speak out.
For now, the debate continues, and the voices of Chillicothe’s residents remain loud and clear.