HAGERSTOWN – Hagerstown city officials are weighing a controversial anti-camping ordinance, even while a bill to limit what cities can do appears to be languishing in a state committee for this session of the Legislature.
The Hagerstown measure was aimed at what proponents argue would be improved public safety and cleanliness in the city’s public spaces. The ordinance has sparked debate among residents, advocates and local officials.
During recent city council discussions, Hagerstown proposed an ordinance to regulate unauthorized camping in public areas such as parks and sidewalks. The move follows a U.S. Supreme Court decision affirming cities’ rights to regulate camping without violating constitutional protections.
The ordinance aims to enhance safety and ensure accessibility by addressing fire risks, sanitation concerns and other hazards linked to unauthorized camping. According to Sgt. Edward Plummer from the Hagerstown Police Department, the ordinance would establish clear enforcement guidelines, promoting consistent and fair treatment. He emphasized the importance of public engagement, stating that the city would seek input from residents to balance community needs with safety.
However, the proposal drew criticism from residents and advocates who argued it fails to address the root causes of homelessness and might exacerbate the crisis. During a city council session early in the year, resident Scotty Cook emphasized the inadequacy of local shelter options, pointing out that Washington County has only 220 emergency shelter beds. Cook argued that punishing individuals for sleeping outdoors without providing alternatives is unfair and ineffective, urging the city to pursue more sustainable solutions.
Councilman Matthew Flaherty defended the ordinance, highlighting public safety as a key concern among residents. “Public safety was a huge issue this past election, and I ran to address these problems,” Flaherty stated. “Hagerstown must create a safe environment for everyone who lives and visits here. Residents who pay taxes deserve clean and secure public spaces.”
As city leaders debated this local ordinance, they also opposed Maryland House Bill 4870, a state-level proposal granting individuals the right to sleep in public spaces like parks and sidewalks. City officials expressed concern that HB 4870 could undermine their local enforcement efforts and place additional strain on city resources, potentially worsening Hagerstown’s homelessness issues.
Councilman Robert Flurie, who was expected to testify against HB 4870 in Annapolis, emphasized that local officials should retain control over homelessness strategies tailored specifically to their community. He warned that the state bill could inadvertently complicate local responses and impede ongoing efforts to manage the situation effectively.
With the 2025 legislative session set to end April 7, or a month later if extended, the bill does not appear to be headed for passage.
Hagerstown city council members plan to revisit the local anti-camping ordinance in upcoming meetings to balance enforcement measures and increased support services. Residents and community stakeholders are encouraged to actively participate in these discussions by attending city council sessions or reaching out directly to local officials.
