OPEN LETTER to KC SHERIFF: Public Camping in Burien

“Tents and makeshift shelters obstructing sidewalks creates hazards for pedestrians, including the elderly, children, and individuals with disabilities… I urge you to enforce the prohibition on daytime camping.” - L. Welch

This letter was sent to the King County Sheriff and leaders by verified Burien resident Lauren Welch.[NOTE FROM EDITOR: Letters to the Editor do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Burien-News or Daniel Media. If you wish to submit a story, photo, article or letter, please contact us. We look forward to hearing from you.]To: Dow.constantine@kingcounty.govShannon.braddock@kingcounty.govTeresa.mosqueda@kingcounty.govPatti.cole-tindall@kingcounty.govjesse.anderson@kingcounty.govTheodore.Boe@kingcounty.govKatie@burien-news.comApril 20, 2024Dear King County Sheriff and Burien Police Department,I am writing to express my concern regarding the lack of enforcement of the daytime portion of the camping ordinance in the city of Burien, particularly in light of recent circumstances. As you may be aware, there has been a notable increase in individuals camping on sidewalks during the daytime hours, which has raised significant public safety and quality of life issues for residents and businesses alike.While I understand that there is ongoing legal scrutiny regarding the constitutionality of certain aspects of the camping ordinance, I urge you to enforce the prohibition on daytime camping until a court determines its validity. Allowing individuals to camp on sidewalks during the day poses several risks to public safety and adversely impacts the well-being of our community.First and foremost, the presence of tents and makeshift shelters obstructing sidewalks creates hazards for pedestrians, including the elderly, children, and individuals with disabilities. Sidewalks are essential pathways for residents and visitors alike, and blocking them with tents not only impedes mobility but also increases the likelihood of accidents and injuries.Moreover, allowing daytime camping on sidewalks sends a negative message to both customers and residents. Potential customers may be deterred from patronizing local businesses if they must navigate through encampments to access storefronts. Many businesses have reported a drop of about 40% in their business since the daytime camping ordinance was no longer enforced. This not only hurts businesses financially but also diminishes the vibrancy of our community and erodes the sense of safety and security that residents deserve.Furthermore, the proliferation of sidewalk camping can lead to unsanitary conditions, attracting pests and creating health hazards for everyone in the vicinity. Accumulations of waste and debris pose significant public health risks and contribute to the degradation of our neighborhood environment.In light of these concerns, I respectfully request that the Burien Police Department and King County Sheriff's Office prioritize the enforcement of the daytime camping portion of the ordinance to ensure the safety and well-being of our community members. By taking proactive measures to address sidewalk camping during the day, we can uphold public safety standards, support local businesses, and maintain the livability of our neighborhoods.Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to your prompt action in addressing these pressing issues.Sincerely,Lauren WelchBurien Resident[Note: Burien-News was notified that several others have also sent this email to the Sheriff and Burien police department.][NOTE FROM EDITOR: If you wish to submit a story, photo, article or letter, please contact us. Even if you wish to remain anonymous, please include your name and phone number so we may contact you privately. We look forward to hearing from you.]