Trinity County Advances ‘Coordinated Strategy to Address Homeless Encampments’

This is a press release from Trinity County, California:

The Trinity County Board of Supervisors and the Homeless Encampment Ad Hoc Committee (Committee) have announced a coordinated and compassionate approach to addressing homeless encampments throughout the County.  The Committee is made up of two Supervisors, County Staff (CAO, Community Development Department, Department of Transportation, Health and Human Services Agency, Probation, and Sheriff), and the Human Response Network (HRN), all dedicated to improving quality of life within the county.  After months of outreach, planning, and public safety evaluation, the Committee has developed a draft ordinance and action plan that reflects the unique needs of Trinity’s rural communities.

“Trinity County, like many rural areas in California, is facing difficult challenges when it comes to addressing homeless encampments,” said Trent Tuthill, Trinity County Administrative Officer and Chair of the Homeless Encampment Ad Hoc Committee.  “Our approach is grounded in public safety, environmental stewardship, and human dignity. The draft ordinance and accompanying plan are the result of thoughtful collaboration among County departments, and guided by community input.”

Since its formation, the Committee has conducted multiple field visits to areas known for encampments, including Weaverville and Hayfork.  These visits—on March 3, April 7, and May 12 of this year—informed a better understanding of both the scope of the issue and the human stories behind it to be able to mitigate the problems, intervene, and help remove barriers to success. County staff engaged with several individuals, observed numerous campsites, provided information about local resources, addressed any observed law violations and public safety issues, and identified areas of concern for public health and fire danger.

The Committee’s work culminated in the development of the Trinity County

Homeless Encampment Action Plan, which outlines a four-part strategy:

• Public Safety and Environmental Stewardship: Focused on identifying high-risk areas, reducing fire danger, and minimizing environmental damage.
• Service Connection and Outreach: Implementing “Camp Visit Days” to encampments to offer support.
• Ordinance Development: Drafting new local laws that address encampments in a legally sound and humane way.
• Community Engagement: Ensuring residents are informed and have the opportunity to participate in shaping solutions.

A key component of the effort is the proposed ordinance—Section 8.41 of the Trinity County Code—which would prohibit camping in designated hazardous or sensitive areas, including waterways, school zones, public buildings, and Very High Fire Severity Zones.  The ordinance provides clear guidelines for enforcement while ensuring compliance with legal standards related to notice, abatement, and personal property storage.

The first reading of the ordinance before the Board of Supervisors was held on Tuesday, June 3, 2025.  The County encourages residents to review the proposal and participate in the next public meeting.

“Homelessness won’t be solved overnight, but Trinity County is committed to taking action that is smart, compassionate, and tailored to our local realities,” continued Tuthill. “With continued community input and collaboration, we can implement lasting solutions that protect both people and place.”

Trinity County remains committed to supporting vulnerable residents while maintaining public health, safety, and environmental integrity.  The draft ordinance of the Trinity County Code entitled: Encampments on Public Property can be accessed here.