FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 26, 2024
City of San Rafael Responds to Governor Newsom’s Executive Order on Homeless Encampments
San Rafael, Calif – The City of San Rafael welcomes Governor Gavin Newsom’s recent Executive Order directing state agencies to urgently address homelessness while respecting the dignity and safety of those affected. The Executive Order highlights the urgent need to address encampments posing health and safety risks, with substantial state investments of over $24 billion in various homelessness programs, including $6 million for the Mahon Creek Area encampment.
“While his guidance aligns with the City of San Rafael’s current practices, I am thankful that Governor Newsom recognizes the urgency of this situation and is directing state agencies to work to humanely resolve encampments across the state,” said Mayor Kate Colin, “I am optimistic that the programs we’ve already put in place and are implementing will be successful in transitioning people from the streets and into housing. San Rafael cannot effectively address this issue alone and will continue to look to the County of Marin to provide the critical funding and resources towards the development of much-needed interim shelter.”
The Executive Order issued on July 25, emphasizes the need for the humane removal of encampments by State agencies and departments, including site assessments, advance notice, outreach services, and personal property storage for at least 60 days. The Order encourages local governments to adopt similar practices. For San Rafael, the Executive Order aligns with the City’s current practices.
This week the City conducted site assessments and addressed nine illegally constructed structures along Andersen Drive. Individuals were notified to dismantle the structures by July 31. Failure to comply will result in an administrative hearing scheduled for August 20, overseen by retired Superior Court Judge Beverly Wood. This enforcement approach is part of the City’s regular practice to manage and abate illegal encampments.
The City of San Rafael’s recently adopted camping ordinance includes regulations such as campsite size maximums and setback requirements from other campsites, private property lines, schools, and public utility infrastructure. These measures ensure fair and advanced notice of violations.
The City continues to collaborate closely with the County of Marin and local non-profit service providers. Recently, a service fair was held in the Mahon Creek Area to connect individuals with essential services and supports. Additionally, the City provides personal property storage for 90 days, exceeding the Executive Order’s requirements.
The City of San Rafael remains committed to finding solutions that honor the dignity of every person living in San Rafael, while at the same time preserving the accessibility and cleanliness of our shared public spaces something that is crucial for the well-being of everyone who calls our city home.
In related news, the City is awaiting a ruling on the City’s motion to dismiss the Boyd v. San Rafael lawsuit and will provide updates as they become available. Furthermore, a comprehensive update on the City’s response to homelessness, including discussions on the ERF-3 grant funds and proposed adjustments to the Camping Ordinance, will be presented at the August 19 City Council Meeting.
For more information, please visit contact: Homelessness – San Rafael (cityofsanrafael.org)
Media Contact
John Stefanski, Assistant City Manager, PIO@cityofsanrafael.org