BLUEFIELD, W.Va. — The City of Bluefield approved an ordinance Tuesday regarding sleeping on City property.
The ordinance, which had its second reading Tuesday evening, aims to prevent the growth of the city’s homeless population, but also reach out to those in need of help and support.
First-time offenders will be given a simple warning with no fine or arrest and will be given information about getting proper help regarding rehabilitation and/or recovery programs. Second-time offenders will be given a $200 fine, while third-time offenders within 12 months will get a $500 fine and/or 30 days in jail.
Bluefield does not currently possess a large homeless population, but city leaders wanted to get ahead of the issue. Cities such as Morgantown and Clarksburg have approved camping bans or ordinances in recent weeks as well.