Peavey Park encampment cleared in accordance with unanimous board directive

Peavey Park encampment cleared in accordance with unanimous board directive

This morning, the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) cleared the encampment at Peavey Park in accordance with directives in a resolution unanimously approved by Park Board Commissioners in mid-July. The directives limit encampment sites and does not allow encampments to be located in safe school zones.

The MPRB issued notices to vacate on August 10 to those living in approximately 12 tents in Peavey Park. Hennepin County and park outreach staff were on site for several days offering assistance and providing transportation to other locations.  Hennepin County and St. Stephens have since been on site multiple times to connect those living in the encampment to services and spaces available at nearby shelters. Efforts to clear the encampment without the use of law enforcement have been unsuccessful.

“Park Commissioners unanimously approved the resolution directing park staff to do this incredibly challenging work. We need to support staff’s efforts, including the work of Park Police, to carry out this work,” said Board President Jono Cowgill.

The K-12 Hope Academy is located next to the park and in-person classes began on September 2. Parents and students commented during Open Time at the September 2 and September 16 Park Board meetings, requesting commissioners and staff clear the encampment so students and families can access the park play equipment, athletic courts and field.

“We need to begin healing as a city. Cleaning up this park is needed for these kids and all kids in this community. Our children have been through a lot of trauma and they need a place to play,” explained Board Vice President LaTrisha Vetaw.

“Since August 10, we have sought a peaceful disbandment of the camp, as we have disbanded other camps in the park system. The use of law enforcement has been a last resort at Peavey, as it was at Powderhorn Park,” said Superintendent Bangoura.

Once the encampment is cleared of people, the site will be cleaned, including removal of abandoned tents and search for and removal of needles and bio-hazard materials.

Details about the MPRB’s efforts related to temporary encampments is at  www.minneapolisparks.org/encampments an includes tent numbers, permitted temporary encampments, MPRB support services, and a timeline of actions, with links to news releases, Board actions and MN Executive Orders related to COVID-19, unsheltered people and encampments.