Concerns grow over homeless camps in Fargo

FARGO, N.D. (KVRR) — People speak up at Fargo’s City Commission meeting over concerns of homeless camps growing in popularity along the river.

The commission is considering an ordinance and have looked into the legality in their discussions.

The Supreme Court determined it is not cruel and unusual punishment to not allow camping on public property.

Commissioner Dave Piepkorn says there should be a fine if you camp in a park that isn’t a public campground.

He adds that the issue at hand is about camping and not about a specific group.

One Fargo homeowner says he wants everyone to feel safe.

He and wife, who uses the bike path often, brought up other issues such as liter, sanitary concerns and the beauty of the parks. Mark Bosserman says, “We want to work with you guys and as citizens, we want to know what we can do to help and how we can make it like, Mr. Piepkorn said, good for everyone. If they’re paying to camp in Lindenwood, why aren’t they paying to camp out in front, all the way up to your place right out here.”

Commissioners say they need to get on the same page as the Fargo Park District.

Commissioner John Strand also would like to see what the laws are in Moorhead before moving forward.