At its March 18 meeting, the Fremont City Council approved a revision to its deeply contentious encampment ban, originally passed on Feb. 11 and enforced on March 18. Spearheaded by Councilmember Kathy Kimberlin and Mayor Raj Salwan, the amendment aimed to ease mounting public backlash, particularly over the “aiding and abetting” clause, which residents feared would criminalize efforts to assist the unhoused community.
The proposed amendment seeks to address public concern by permitting camping on residentially zoned private property that contains a single-family home, clarifying that giving food, water or other goods to homeless individuals is not prohibited, and eliminating Section 8.90.060(b)(1), which had raised concerns regarding enforcement. The urgency ordinance took effect immediately upon approval by a four-fifths majority of the city council.
“We need to ensure that those who are helping our unhoused neighbors are not penalized for their compassion,” Councilmember Kimberlin said.
But not everyone is pleased with the amended ordinance. Many residents are demanding stronger measures to support the unhoused, while others are calling for its complete repeal. Fremont resident Herb Chu argues that the city must strike a better balance between enforcement and compassionate policymaking.
“We’re advocating for a more sustainable solution that addresses root causes of homelessness,” Chu said.
Resident David Bonaccorsi expressed concern. “You’re trying to do what you believe is in the best interest of the city, but you have an opportunity to correct your mistakes.”
