Haddonfield’s nighttime outdoor sleeping ban sparks criticism for potentially criminalizing homelessness.

The affluent Camden County borough of Haddonfield is currently deliberating the implementation of an ordinance aimed at addressing homelessness through potential criminal penalties for individuals sleeping outdoors in public spaces at night. The proposal, if enacted, would mark a significant policy shift, with critics asserting that such a measure would effectively criminalize homelessness.

During a recent Board of Commissioners meeting that lasted over three hours, community members expressed their opinions on the matter before the board voted 2-1 to introduce the ordinance. The board is expected to make a final decision on the legislation by the end of this year.

The proposed ordinance would make it illegal to sleep outdoors in public areas from dusk until dawn, alongside prohibiting disorderly conduct during night hours. Notably, enforcement of the law would only occur if individuals decline to seek shelter at an available facility. Additionally, if no shelter space is accessible, enforcement would not be applicable.

Haddonfield Police Chief Jason Cutler emphasized that the intent behind the ordinance is not punitive; rather, it aims to encourage individuals to seek help. The proposed penalties for violations of the ordinance include a maximum of 90 days in jail, fines reaching up to ,000, or up to 90 days of community service. The ordinance also seeks to address issues related to public sanitation, specifically prohibiting urination and defecation in public areas.

This legislative consideration follows a U.S. Supreme Court ruling last year, affirming that local governments have the authority to enact bans against homeless individuals sleeping in public spaces. Consequently, various municipalities across New Jersey have been assessing similar measures. For instance, in June, the affluent community of Summit in North Jersey enacted its own outdoor public sleeping ban, though other towns have retracted such proposals after facing public opposition.

Haddonfield, with a population of approximately 12,500, boasts a high median household income of 0,882, substantially exceeding the state average of ,781. Police Chief Cutler reported a notable increase in police calls related to homelessness, escalating from 88 calls recorded in all of 2024 to 148 as of the most recent Friday. Most of these calls involved a small number of individuals repeatedly engaging in trespassing and other related issues.

As the Haddonfield community grapples with this proposed ordinance, the discussion has drawn a divide in public opinion. Many residents have voiced strong opposition to criminalizing homelessness, urging the borough to explore alternative solutions rather than resorting to the criminal justice system. Mayor Dave Siedell, however, perceives the situation as urgent, stating that the impending closure of overnight train services will further exacerbate challenges for those seeking shelter.

As the city engages in this important dialogue, the potential impacts of the ordinance on both the homeless population and the broader community continue to be at the forefront of discussions among officials and residents alike. The outcome of this proposal may set a precedent for how communities address homelessness in the future.

Media News Source