The recent ordinance passed by the Saratoga Springs City Council, criminalizing the acts of sitting, lying, or sleeping on city property, represents a step backward in what should be our shared commitment to humane and just treatment of ALL residents, especially the most vulnerable among us. This ordinance transforms an act of necessity into a criminal offense, ignoring the systemic issues at the heart of homelessness and depriving individuals of their fundamental human dignity.

Studies have shown that criminalizing homelessness leads to worse outcomes for both individuals and communities. Instead of solving the problem, such laws push unhoused individuals further into the margins and waste community resources that could be used towards creating meaningful solutions.   

Instead of penalizing individuals who have no choice but to use public spaces, our city should focus on creating sustainable solutions. There must be a housing-first approach, which includes establishing a low-barrier shelter AND creating more affordable housing in the city. 

We urge the Saratoga Springs City Council to rescind the punitive ordinance and pledge their commitment to creating a low-barrier shelter & more affordable housing. We believe that the City of Saratoga Springs has the resources to create a path towards housing stability and that begins with ending the criminalization of homelessness.

Sign our petition today!