Denver Mayor Mike Johnston Takes Action: Sweeping Homeless Encampments for the First Time

Denver Mayor Mike Johnston authorized the first homeless encampment sweep, with city crews clearing the tents and makeshift shelters along the 2200 block of Stout Street. While residents were given more time to pack their belongings, the lack of alternative housing options means many will simply move to another area of the city. Johnston aims to avoid sweeps without housing options and has declared homelessness an emergency, with a goal of providing shelter for 1,000 people before the end of the year. However, some residents criticize the approach, arguing that sweeps are necessary to address public health and safety concerns.