The Savannah City Council recently held a workshop to evaluate the first 90 days of the Urban Camping Ordinance. Since its implementation, the Savannah Police Department has issued 179 warnings and citations, which led to 15 arrests. Of these arrests, six were solely for violations of the ordinance, accounting for about 8 percent of those contacted.
During the review, updated written materials were presented by both the Savannah Police Department and the Chatham-Savannah Authority for the Homeless (CSAH). These materials are now being used by officers to connect individuals experiencing homelessness with available resources. The focus is on outreach and services rather than incarceration.
Over this period, CSAH helped 47 people find housing in other communities and provided them with bus passes. Stephanie Kaple, Executive Director of the Interagency Council on Homelessness (ICH), stated, “the rollout of the ordinance has sparked meaningful collaboration across agencies and inspired innovation within the local homelessness response system.”
Kaple also noted that gaps in service delivery have become more apparent during this process. The ICH is working to address these issues through its strategic plan and partnership framework. The Savannah Chamber participates in all related discussions.
Council members recognized that this is an ongoing effort and expressed appreciation for the coordinated work of local agencies and community partners to improve outcomes for vulnerable residents.
A follow-up workshop will take place in another 90 days to review progress and consider improvements in areas such as storage for personal items, accommodations for pets, and support strategies for individuals leaving confinement.
City officials and community organizations remain optimistic that continued collaboration will strengthen support systems for those experiencing homelessness while maintaining public spaces for businesses, residents, and visitors.
For additional information, contact Jennifer Davenport, VP of Community Affairs.
