HAGERSTOWN – A proposal to make it illegal to sleep or lodge outdoors on public property in Hagerstown has failed, at least for now. A split vote at the May 27 City Council meeting left the ordinance without enough support to pass.
The proposed ordinance, Chapter 173-32 “Prohibited Lodging Out of Doors,” would have barred anyone from sleeping, camping or lodging on public property, including streets, parks, sidewalks and vehicles parked in public areas. The ordinance was introduced amid growing visibility of homelessness in and around downtown Hagerstown.
While some residents and business owners have asked for stronger regulations, others argue that criminalizing homelessness only worsens the problem.
The ordinance included a six-month sunset clause, meaning it would automatically expire unless renewed. Supporters described it as a necessary tool to address rising concerns about safety and sanitation in areas where unhoused individuals have set up camp.
Opposition cites existing tools, redundancy
Councilwoman Tiara Burnett opposed the ordinance, calling it unnecessary. “We already have enforcement tools in place,” Burnett said. “This measure is redundant. “We need sustainable investment in support services, not more enforcement.”
While unable to vote, Mayor William McIntire has publicly emphasized compassion-based responses to homelessness and reiterated the need for community collaboration. Council members voted 2-2, effectively halting the legislation. The city charter does not permit the mayor to break tie votes on ordinances, so the measure did not move forward.
Council members Kristin Aleshire and Sean Flaherty voted in favor of the ordinance, while Erika Bell and Tiara Burnett voted “no.” Council member Caroline Anderson was absent.
What happens now?
With the ordinance stalled, the city is expected to revisit alternative strategies. Several local leaders and residents have called for expanding partnerships with nonprofit groups, investing in housing-first initiatives and exploring peer support models that help individuals struggling with mental health or substance abuse.
Next Steps
Though the ordinance failed to pass, council members indicated that the conversation is far from over. For now, Hagerstown will continue using existing policies to manage public spaces while evaluating longer-term solutions that address the root causes of homelessness.
The following work session of the mayor and City Council is scheduled for Tuesday, June 3, at 4 p.m. Community members concerned with housing, public safety or related services are encouraged to attend or submit public comments.
