JONESBORO, Ark. — Camping in Jonesboro city parks or parking lots is now prohibited outside designated camping areas, following the city council's unanimous approval of a new ordinance.
The ordinance, labeled 26-038, bans the use of tents, shelters, sleeping bags, or bedding in non-designated areas of city parks or city-owned parking lots. Craighead Forest Park, which has a designated campground, remains the only area in the city where overnight camping is allowed.
Violators of the ordinance are subject to the removal of their belongings by law or code enforcement and a fine of at least $100 for the first offense.
The ordinance is part of the city's effort to address concerns in public spaces while maintaining access to resources for those in need. The Jonesboro Salvation Army operates an emergency shelter that provides 16 low-barrier entry beds for men. Major John Phil Winter, the commanding officer of the Jonesboro Salvation Army, emphasized the shelter's accessibility, explaining, “The need is the reason that you come in. We don’t ask for too much from people. So if they are homeless and if they need a place and a bed to stay, we have that to offer them.”
The shelter enforces bans on alcohol, drugs, pornography, and weapons and generally limits stays to two weeks. Exceptions are made for individuals actively seeking work or housing. Due to financial limitations, the shelter is presently unable to accommodate women or children. Winter noted that community support plays a significant role in sustaining their services.
“This is our red kettle season coming up, where we’re raising money through the red kettle program,” Winter said. “Financial donations, that’s how we’re able to provide the assistance that we do. And it’s the finances that we receive from the community—they stay in the community.”
The Salvation Army’s fundraising efforts will soon be underway, with the red kettle program starting on Nov. 13 and the Angel Tree program launching Nov. 12. Angel Tree locations include Walmart, Kroger, and other spots, where residents can pick up tags to provide Christmas gifts for children in need. Gifts can be returned to 800 Kate Avenue in Jonesboro.