Madison Lipes for THE PAPER
Morganton City Council approved an ordinance banning people from occupying public spaces between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. Education efforts begin immediately, with strict enforcement starting Oct. 1.
- 288 calls for service since January 2023 at the Historic Burke County Courthouse square alone.
- Crimes include vandalism, overdoses, public sex acts, and assaults.
- New ordinance mirrors successful policy from New Hanover County.
- Signage and flyers will inform the public and offer support resources.
- U.S. Supreme Court ruled that local governments do not violate the 8th Amendment’s restriction on cruel and unusual punishment when they prohibit camping on public property.
Read the full story by municipal reporter Madison Lipes in Saturday’s edition of The Paper.