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DANVILLE, Ill. (WCIA) — The City of Danville voted Tuesday night on an ordinance that would establish regulations for camping in town.

Now, public camping is declared to be a “nuisance” within the city. This means that people are prohibited from sleeping on public sidewalks, streets, alleys, lanes, other public right-of-way, parks, benches, or any other publicly-owned property.

This decision comes after multiple people living in Ellsworth Park had to pick up their items and move recently. WCIA reported that law enforcement said said they’ve been getting complaints about trash, used needles and other health risk items around the area. But, people living in the park told WCIA that there aren’t many other options.

Violators of this ordinance will have to pay a $75 fee on their first offense. After that, the fee increases for each repeated offense, until the sixth violation. A sixth violation of this ordinance within two years may lead to incarceration, according to city documents.

Danville said the fee could also be paid if the the person in violation cleans “the rights-of-way and other public facilities.” The city said the penalty can be reduce if the person removes all personal property from their campsite, after they are information that they were in violation of the ordinance.

The ordinance passed 6-1 Tuesday night. Members Ludwig, Jones, Ahrens, Cooper, Pickering and Strebing voted in favor of the ordinance, while member Teague voted against it.

Chief Executive Officer of the Danville YMCA Laura Floyd said the YMCA provides some food, clothing items, and a space to shower for those in need.

The Dwelling Place of Vermilion County, located in the basement of First Presbyterian Church, 100 N Franklin, Danville, also provides resources for those in need.

The Day Center is open Mondays and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. where they provide lunch, showers, laundry facilities, computers, recourses, and clothing. They also hold a Hygiene Pantry every 30 days. The Dwelling has two houses for homeless families as well. If you are interested in volunteering with The Dwelling, email tdpdaycenter@gmail.com or call 217-213-5308.

The Danville Rescue Mission and Vermilion Community Restoration also provide resources for community members in need.

WCIA reached out to the city council and the police department to find out when the ordinance would begin to be enforced but did not immediately receive a response back.

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