We’ve all seen images and heard stories of dangers and unsafe conditions at “unmanaged campgrounds” and tent cities.
In many unmanaged campgrounds, the lack of oversight or experienced management leads to unsafe living conditions. For instance, in a sprawling homeless encampment along a riverbed in a large city, residents frequently use open flames for cooking and warmth. Without proper fire safety measures, these practices may lead to fires, endangering the entire community.
Additionally, the absence of sanitation facilities result in unsanitary conditions, with trash accumulation and the spread of diseases, creating a public health crisis.
Another common danger in unmanaged campgrounds is the high risk of violence and theft. In a makeshift tent city under a highway overpass, the lack of security and law enforcement presence allows criminal activities to thrive. Residents report frequent assaults, thefts, and drug-related crimes. The absence of any form of community rules and enforcement means that vulnerable individuals, especially women and the elderly, are at significant risk, with no mechanism for protection or dispute resolution.
Local, regional and national media share many more stories of “unmanaged campgrounds” than they do of well-run, “managed campgrounds.” Therefore, it’s important to flip the script and expose yourself to “best practices” in managed campgrounds.
This is a 7-minute interview in which Nicole Westford, the city manager for the City of Coos Bay, OR. Ms. Westford discusses the establishment of a 24/7 managed campground on an unused right of way. The campground, known as Cold Bank Village, provides 22 pallet shelters for individuals experiencing homelessness.
The site has a low-barrier for entry and aims to help individuals transition to a more stable lifestyle. Compared to other shelter facilities, Cold Bank Village has resulted in fewer police calls. The success of this model has sparked discussions about expanding the facility.
Unmanaged vs Managed Campgrounds is discussed in more detail in Chapter 5 (Sheltering “Best Practices” in Grants Pass & Beyond) of The SECRET SAUCE Model available through Amazon (click here).
