Seaside to consider a new ordinance to restrict public space usage

SEASIDE, Calif. (KION-TV) -- The Seaside City Council is moving forward with the ordinance after some complaints during public comment. Speakers told the chamber about their worries of infringing on the rights of homeless people, who since a 2024 supreme court decision, have been facing more aggressive enforcement, including here on the central coast. Mayor Ian Ogelsby says that despite the concerns of the community, the ordinance doesn't take away anyone's rights or due process.

Other people in public comment brought up their own experiences of aggressive soliciting from homeless people, something addressed by the ordinance

Original Article: The City of Seaside is considering an ordinance that aims to make public spaces safer by setting new limits for the unhoused community. 

If approved, parking any vehicle on public property for the purpose of eating, sleeping, or resting would be prohibited from 9 p.m. until to 6 a.m.

Storing personal items within 200 feet of city property would also not be allowed.

Personal items could also be removed without prior warning if they're deemed to be a biohazard.

Additionally, aggressive and unsafe solicitation would be prohibited on street medians, at ATMs and other similar areas.