FOX 7 Discussion: Mayor Adler on homeless ordinances

Earlier this month, the Austin City Council voted to repeal its sit, lie and camping ordinances in order to, in their words, “decriminalize" homelessness.

The city council also voted to move ahead with the purchase of a building in South Austin that will serve as a second homeless shelter, not far from neighborhoods and schools. These actions have sparked intense debate by citizens who either support what the city is doing, or are against it.

Since the ordinances were repealed, there has been an increase in the number of tents and homeless camps under highway overpasses, particularly along the Highway 71 and 290 corridors.

Several fires at these camps and even cases of violence have people concerned.

Mayor Steve Adler joined Mike Warren and Rebecca Thomas to discuss the recent changes to the city’s homeless policies.