The Marshfield Common Council discussed a proposed ordinance aimed at camping on city property on Oct. 13 but did not take a formal vote on it.
The proposal was first brought forward in July by District 5 Alderperson Scott Koran and District 4 Alderperson Brian Varsho, and a draft received its first reading in September. After that reading, alderpersons voted 7-1, with two abstentions, to add a sunset clause setting an expiration date for the measure.
Mayor Nick Poeschel said he does not support passing the ordinance, noting concerns about enforcement and prosecution raised even by the city attorney. Poeschel said homelessness cannot be addressed simply through legislation, and pointed to local outreach organizations that continue to serve people despite limited funding and rising demand.
Other alderpersons raised concerns from residents, including reports of people looking into windows at night and living in vehicles in neighborhoods. Alderperson Rebecca Spiros said residents feel their privacy and peace are being affected, and she raised the idea of designating a city-owned property where people could stay overnight, an idea other members said was worth exploring later.
City Attorney Harold Wolfgram described the issue as a social problem rather than a legal one, telling residents their option is to call police for help while noting officers are limited in what they can do. Staff were informally asked to revisit the draft and gather information on approaches used in other communities for discussion at upcoming meetings.
