As a resident of Vancouver, Washington, in the Historical Hough Neighborhood near the Sound Wall on Mill Plain, I am deeply concerned about the unchecked expansion of unsheltered homelessness and camping near our schools and residential areas. This issue has made it unsafe for me to enjoy simple activities like walking my dog, let alone the fear the children and elders feel in their neighborhoods. 

In the 2024 Homeless Emergency Action Plan, the City of Vancouver highlights the growing challenges associated with "allowed" encampments, including:

 • Weapons, firearms, and violence,

 • Improper disposal of waste and biohazards,

 • Careless storage of drugs (e.g., fentanyl pills found on the ground),

 • Overdoses, and

 • Threats or intimidation directed at outreach workers.

Despite acknowledging these risks, the City has implemented a 1,000-foot camping ban only around “Safe Stay” shelters, citing the need for safety, sanitation, a supportive environment, and resource allocation. However, these priorities are equally essential for all residential neighborhoods and schools, not just for designated shelter zones.

The disparity in enforcement creates significant inequality:

 1. Background Checks: Residents of Safe Stays and shelters are vetted for violent or sexual offense histories, while individuals camping near residential neighborhoods are not subject to such screening.

 2. Community Engagement: When Safe Stay/shelter sites are proposed, city officials hold listening sessions to address community concerns. Residential neighborhoods, by contrast, receive no such consideration for encampments near their homes.

 3. Safety Regulations: The 1,000-foot camping ban ensures safety for Safe Stay shelters while leaving residential neighborhoods vulnerable to the same risks.

This double standard undermines the safety, peace, and sanitation of residential areas and schools. Families, homeowners, and neighbors deserve the same level of protection afforded to Safe Stay sites.

We, the residents of Vancouver and Clark County, demand:

 1. The extension of the 1,000-foot camping ban to all residential neighborhoods and schools.

 2. Consistent application of safety regulations, including background checks for individuals camping near homes and schools.

 3. Transparent communication and community involvement in decisions impacting residential areas.

Every resident of Vancouver deserves equal protection under the law. We urge our city leaders to eliminate the disparity in safety regulations and extend these essential protections to all residential neighborhoods.

Sign this petition to demand fairness, equality, and safety for all residents of Vancouver, Washington.