For years, the desecration of our waterways has persisted despite calls to action from local citizens, environmental advocacy groups, and other activists. After hundreds of thousands of hours directed towards volunteer-driven cleanups, education efforts, and community outreach, it's clear that we need a long-term solution.

By enforcing "no camping" ordinances, we can help reduce camping along San Jose's essential waterways and the excessive pollution and illegal dumping associated with it. As one of the most well-educated, progressive, and economically productive areas in the world, we can do better. It’s time to step up and create a plan, as other cities such as Oakland, Santa Cruz, and Sacramento have, to prohibit camping along waterways.

We encourage the City of San Jose to take initiative to enact and enforce "no camping" within fifty feet of levees, and are eager to support a solution to this systemic problem. We encourage the City Council Members and Mayor Liccardo to develop policy and have a public conversation about housing alternatives to camping on the creeks. 

Resources from other cities: 

https://santacruzlocal.org/2021/02/24/potential-new-rules-ahead-for-homeless-camps-in-santa-cruz/

https://www.nbcbayarea.com/news/local/east-bay/oakland-approves-rules-to-restrict-homeless-encampments/2384264/

https://www.cityofsacramento.org/Police/Resources/Homeless-and-Mental-Health-Outreach/Homeless-Metrics

Public Awareness Videos: 

Family of Geese Navigating Trash: https://youtu.be/paExq8-cASg

Our Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/FriendsLGCreek