Unauthorized homeless encampment in Minot prompts county ordinance

MINOT, N.D. (KMOT) - An unauthorized homeless encampment is raising public safety concerns in Minot.

County property near Holiday Village Mobile Home Park in southeast Minot has turned into an unauthorized homeless campground.

Sheriff Bob Roed said increased crime in the area sparked concerns, and after an investigation, it prompted the creation of a homeless ordinance brought before the County Commission.

He shared that while investigating, they found four people with warrants and one sex offender.

Roed said this is a safety concern for area residents and the city.

“We would give them 48 hours to pack up their stuff and vacate the area,” said Roed.

The sheriff said anything left behind would become abandoned property after 28 days.

The commissioners passed the ordinance on first reading Tuesday, following discussion.

They have to wait 20 days before taking it up for a second reading.