Homeless advocate challenges North Las Vegas camping ban proposal
City council to vote on ordinance mirroring regional enforcement trend
North Las Vegas is poised to join neighboring jurisdictions in banning homeless encampments, drawing opposition from advocates who argue the measure addresses symptoms rather than root causes of the region’s growing homelessness crisis.
The proposed ordinance, scheduled for a city council vote on August 6, would make camping in public spaces a misdemeanor offense punishable by fines up to $1,000 and jail time of up to 10 days. The measure follows similar policies already enacted by Clark County and the City of Las Vegas.
Personal experience drives opposition
Dr. Catrina Grigsby-Thedford, executive director of the Nevada Homeless Alliance, brings a unique perspective to the debate. Having experienced homelessness herself in Las Vegas from 2000 to 2009, she understands firsthand why some avoid traditional shelter systems.
“As a person who has experienced long-term homelessness in Las Vegas, I never went to a shelter,” Grigsby-Thedford explained, citing traumatic experiences and staff treatment. “People want to be treated with dignity and respect.”
The proposed ban would prohibit camping, sleeping, or setting up temporary shelters in any public right-of-way, including trails, parks, and public facilities. Those found in violation would receive 24-hour notice before their property could be removed and impounded.
Rising homelessness fuels enforcement push
The enforcement measures come as Southern Nevada grapples with surging homelessness rates. The latest Point in Time count identified 7,906 individuals experiencing homelessness in Clark County – a 20% jump from 2023 and a 36% increase over two years.
The demographics reveal concerning trends: African Americans represent 42% of the homeless population despite making up only 13% of the county’s overall population. Those aged 35-44 constitute the largest age group, while the number of homeless families rose from 306 in 2021 to 512 in 2022.
Advocates call for comprehensive solutions
Rather than criminalizing homelessness, Grigsby-Thedford advocates for expanded outreach teams that include formerly homeless individuals who can relate to those still on the streets. She emphasizes that fines and arrests fail to address underlying issues driving people into homelessness.
“Though we respect the jurisdictions’ goals of public safety and order, just pushing people around, giving fines, and arresting individuals doesn’t address the root cause of homelessness,” she stated.
The debate reflects broader tensions across the valley as communities struggle to balance public safety concerns with compassionate responses to homelessness. While Clark County has added over 1,600 non-congregate shelter beds and invested millions in supportive housing, advocates argue the infrastructure remains insufficient for the scale of need.
As North Las Vegas prepares to vote, the ordinance represents another chapter in Southern Nevada’s ongoing challenge to address visible homelessness while working toward long-term housing solutions.
Image Source: https://news3lv.com/news/local/nevada-homeless-alliance-director-opposes-proposed-north-las-vegas-encampment-ban
Category: Politics
Subcategory: City Government
Date: 07/17/2025
