Saratogans Turn Up Against “Camping Ban”

On July 1, many Saratogans turned up to oppose a so-called “camping ban” ordinance that would criminalize a wide range of actions and situations of homelessness. The proposal was put forth by Councilmember Coll on the eve of the Saratoga racetrack opening for the season, and residents were alarmed that he broadcast photographs taken of sleeping people without consent. There was one arrest, and people spoke for over four hours, on their own experiences being unhoused, how this would exacerbate the existing housing crisis, and lawsuits that this would open the city to. The council passed it by a 3-2 vote.