MORGANTOWN — While it stopped short of a full-blown denial, the city of Morgantown says it’s not convinced that reports of increased activity on and around the Hazel’s House of Hope campus is directly linked to the camping ban implemented by the city.
This activity – characterized as “increased foot and vehicle traffic and concerns over possible drug activity” by Seth Wilson, chairman of the Morgantown Community Resources board that oversees the HHH campus – prompted the body to increase its private security presence following its August meeting.
The link between the ban and the need for increased security was initially voiced by Catholic Charities West Virginia Executive Director Mark Phillips.
CCWV operates the 19-bed Grace Shelter within the 108,000-square-foot social services hub.
Phillips, who’s been an outspoken critic of camping bans – including during the recent push in the West Virginia Legislature to implement a statewide prohibition – said it stands to reason that individuals would relocate where the services are.
“There’s a situation in Morgantown where because of the camping ban, individuals have sort of been pushed out of the city center, and so we have more people who are experiencing homelessness setting up encampments around the area where Hazel’s House of Hope is located just because they can get services there,” Phillips told The Dominion Post earlier this month.
Morgantown Communications Director Brad Riffee said the city has yet to see evidence indicating this is a direct cause-and-effect situation.
“We are aware that some have suggested a link between this uptick and the camping ban, but at this point, it seems more like a correlation than a confirmed cause. We’re continuing to work together to better understand the situation,” Riffee explained. “[The Morgantown Police Department] has not identified any statistically significant patterns or trends indicating that Article 1157 is the primary cause of the increased activity.”
Further, Riffee said recent updates indicate that since adding private security and working closely with MPD, there’s been a “noticeable decline” in unwanted behavior on and around the 10.5 acre campus off Scott Avenue.
Wilson confirmed as much, citing a recent meeting that included leadership from both the MPD and the private security firm.
“No matter where unlawful activity occurs, MPD officers immediately respond when called. When the Morgantown Police Department encounters an individual in need, as a matter of policy, we offer that individual services and shelter,” Riffee said. “Officers have exercised compassion, discretion and good judgment with the goal of helping those in need.”
It was also noted that Morgantown is continuing to work closely with CCWV and other stakeholders on matters including the future location of a winter warming shelter. All available information indicates it won’t be at HHH as it has been in recent years.
“We’re truly grateful for the partnerships we’ve built over the years. Our shared goal is to keep working together to find the best possible solutions for the people who need our help the most. It’s incredibly challenging work, but it’s also some of the most important,” Riffee said.
Camping ban by the numbers
First offense warnings: 16
A first offense warning comes with information about resources to obtain assistance in seeking alternate shelter
Second offense citations: 5
A person who commits a second offense shall be subject to a fine of not more than $200
Third offense citations/arrests: 0
A person who commits a third violation within 12 months shall be subject to a fine of not more than $500 and/or subject to imprisonment for up to 30 days.
These numbers represent enforcement from May 29 through Wednesday.
No citations or penalties will be imposed unless alternate shelter has been offered and refused.
Anyone subject to penalties under the ordinance is entitled to alternative sentence considerations upon notifying the municipal court that they need treatment for substance abuse or mental health issues. The city is partnering with Valley HealthCare Systems to manage the alternative sentencing program.
