Dallas overhauls police presence, communication for homeless camp sweeps

Dallas is adjusting its approach to homeless encampments in response to resistance among activists to a sweep earlier this summer. Updated clean-up notices, the provision of cleaning supplies at some camps, and a new law enforcement strategy are all part of the mix. “We’re changing the way we’re doing cleanings because we realize that was an issue,” said Christine Crossley, director of homeless solutions. “We also realize that there are some people that might show up with guns, and I think we need to have a collective response.” The changes come after activists and volunteers, some of whom were armed, showed up to a scheduled camp cleaning in July on Coombs Street in South Dallas, cutting off city workers from the camp and prompting the city to delay the sweep. Activists and residents feared those who hadn’t moved from the camp would be forced to do so and their belongings thrown away that day.

The city subsequently said it had decided to take a more collaborative approach to the camp cleaning, though that was not what had been communicated. One way the city hopes to avoid such incidents is by providing clearer language on notices distributed to camp residents about upcoming sweeps, something officials are currently working on. Another is through taking that collaborative approach: helping residents at some camps keep their areas clean by providing them with cleaning supplies and equipment. In instances where activists do show resistance against city workers, a new security strategy that calls for different levels of law enforcement involvement will come into play. While better communication is welcomed, said Julia Paramo, who is a member of Sunrise Movement Dallas and often works with camp residents, rebuilding trust will take work.