(Des Moines, Iowa [KCCI]) – The City of Des Moines is making strides in addressing homelessness by intensifying efforts to clear homeless camps while also providing supportive measures to help individuals find stable housing. KCCI-TV reports on Monday night, the City Council passed the second reading of a homeless camping ordinance, with a date for the third reading to be determined.

The new ordinance reduces the notification period for clearing homeless camps from 10 days to 24 hours and introduces a potential $50 fine for violators, though the city emphasizes compliance over penalties. The ordinance also includes initiatives like temporary storage for personal belongings, pet shelters, improved transportation, and efforts to increase affordable housing.

A recent U.S. Supreme Court decision has facilitated the removal of homeless camps and people sleeping in public spaces for cities like Des Moines.A study shows that 50,000 additional affordable housing units are needed in the next 20 years.