City Council Special Meeting, 6/9/26

The City of Norman, Oklahoma City Council held a special meeting on June 9, 2026, primarily discussing a proposed ordinance to allow temporary residential camping on private property as a transitional housing solution for homelessness. The ordinance would authorize free temporary camping permits for owner-occupied properties, with restrictions on occupancy, sanitation, and conduct, and included provisions to avoid creating landlord-tenant relationships. Council members expressed significant concerns about safety, liability, neighborhood impacts, and enforcement challenges, with no support for moving the proposal forward. The discussion also touched on state-level opposition to expanding private property rights and the lack of state assistance in addressing homelessness. Additionally, the meeting covered updates to park-related ordinances, including parkland dedication, park development fees, tree protection, and park rules enforcement, with proposals to increase fees on new developments to fund park improvements and clarify rules on motorized vehicles and camping in parks. No votes were taken to advance the camping ordinance, and the council indicated the need for continued discussion on park ordinances and homelessness solutions.