The Chatham County Board of Commissioners has adopted a Five Year Strategic Plan to End Homelessness alongside an urban camping policy. This initiative has garnered support from business, residential organizations, and homelessness service providers. The ordinance was initially tabled at the Commission’s previous meeting.
An identical ordinance had its first reading at the Savannah City Council meeting last Thursday and is set for final consideration at the upcoming Council meeting. Savannah has already adopted the strategic plan.
During discussions, seven out of nine council members shared their views on the ordinance. The Chamber of Commerce expressed support through a letter, urging the Council to approve it.
Chamber President & CEO Bert Brantley stated, “Because this issue is so important to our members, the Chamber has invested substantial resources, including significant staff time, to supporting the Interagency Council on Homelessness (ICH) and the strategic plan.” He emphasized that the ordinance provides law enforcement with necessary tools while connecting homeless individuals to community services.
In a letter addressed to Mayor Van R. Johnson II and Savannah City Council members, Brantley wrote in strong support of the Urban Camping Regulation Ordinance. He described it as “a carefully considered and balanced step toward addressing unsheltered homelessness,” prioritizing shelter connections while maintaining public space safety.
The ordinance has been backed by several organizations including the Tourism Leadership Council, Savannah Downtown Business Association, Downtown Neighborhood Association, and Chatham Savannah Authority for the Homeless (CSAH). It aligns with efforts to preserve Savannah’s image as a welcoming city and complements existing plans like the Encampment Management Policy.
Brantley concluded his letter by expressing gratitude for leadership on this issue and urged full support for the ordinance.
