Dear Missoula Residents,
I want to address concerns regarding the implementation of our new ordinance that allows for limited emergency sheltering in City parks, rights-of-way, and other City properties. We understand that this is a sensitive issue, and I want to assure you that we are taking careful steps to manage it responsibly.
Under the new ordinance, sheltering outdoors in parks is permitted only between 8 p.m. and 8 a.m. These activities are restricted by buffer zones around residential properties, playgrounds, splash decks, sports fields, and other key areas. A small portion of certain parks may fall outside these buffer zones, allowing for temporary sheltering during these hours. We carefully use factors such as park use, safety, maintenance, and the requirements of the ordinance when considering these areas.
We recognize that many of you prefer not to have overnight sheltering in the parks within your neighborhoods. We appreciate your willingness to consider how every neighborhood can have a role in providing necessary shelter for those in need. Our goal is to lessen the impacts by creating smaller, less concentrated areas across the community where people can safely shelter. We are committed to reviewing every complaint and report received, and we will continue to closely monitor these sites.
If you observe camping that is illegal or a threat to public health and safety, you can call 406-552-6606 or make an online report from the link on our Seeking Shelter webpage. Any other criminal behavior should be reported to 911. Your feedback and vigilance are vital as we work to enforce these regulations.
For more detailed information, I invite you to view the following resources:
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we navigate this complex issue together.
Sincerely,
Andrea Davis
Mayor of Missoula