Hermiston considers big changes to camping ordinance
By Terry Murry on Monday, September 11th, 2023 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
HERMISTON – The Hermiston City Council begins the process of rewriting its camping ordinances at its meeting tonight at 7 p.m. The move comes after the Oregon Legislature passed a bill that allows cities to have ordinances to address the time, place, and manner of restrictions on camping on public property.
There are many proposed changes. Some include banning camping on parking lots, in playgrounds, and within 750 feet of a school. Camping would be outlawed within 20 feet of a building, and prohibited under roads, bridges, on or near railroad tracks, or at the cemetery. Campsites must be smaller than 10’-by-10’ and separated from other campsites by 10 feet. The entire package of changes is part of the council’s agenda for the meeting.
The council will also consider a resolution that deals with opioid funding from the National Opioid Settlement. The resolution would establish an intergovernmental agreement with Umatilla County to establish a full time position for a counselor to be assigned to the Hermiston Municipal Court. The county is also in favor of combining its funds with Pendleton for a similar position there.
Prior to the meeting, the council will hold a work session on the budget for the Parks and Recreation Department. The meeting is at Hermiston City Hall, 180 NE Second St. and is also streamed live on the city’s YouTube channel.
