Axios
Denver GOP chairman Garrett Flicker filed a ballot initiative Thursday that would cap the number of city-sanctioned campsites for people experiencing homelessness to four or fewer on public land.Residents also could sue the city for failing to remove illegal campsites within 72 hours of a complaint.Stay on top of the latest market trends and economic insights with Axios Markets. Subscribe for freeWhat they’re saying: "What we really seek to do is to stop the unsanctioned camping ... and reinforce the urban camping ban," Flicker told Alayna.Details: The plan would work in conjunction with Denver’s sanctioned homeless camps initiative — a program that has relied on private property owners to grant outdoor space and faced resistance from neighbors nearly every step of the way. Flicker suggested the four managed campsites on public property be funded with cash from the new homeless relief tax voters passed in November, estimated to generate $40 million annually. Each campsite would be required to provide "running water, restroom facilities, and lighting," the ballot initiative reads.The other side: The measure would be "extremely punitive" to the unhoused community, said Cathy Alderman, head of public policy at the Colorado Coalition for the Homeless. "Until we have more sheltering and housing resources available, we shouldn’t find ways to penalize people because they are experiencing homelessness," she told Axios. The measure also failed to guarantee the camps would be set up or serviced adequately, she said. Context: An ordinance banned urban camping citywide in 2012, but it hasn't stopped makeshift tent cities from appearing along sidewalks and street corners throughout the city. Opponents argue sweeping away encampments destroys the belongings of those most vulnerable, violates their rights and causes trauma. Supporters — including Mayor Michael Hancock’s administration — say deteriorating conditions at campsites threaten public health and safety.The big picture: Hancock’s legal team appealed a January order by a federal judge requiring city officials to give a week’s notice before clearing out any homeless encampments.The Hancock administration is working to divert 911 calls related to homelessness from police and reroute them toward a "compassion or civilian corps" — though police will maintain a presence during sweeps, Axios first reported in February. More from Axios: Sign up to get the latest market trends with Axios Markets. Subscribe for free