Councilwoman Ann O'Brien's Statement on Parks Ordinance Vote

"Wednesday night's vote establishes a reasonable framework that protects both constitutional rights and public safety.

Setting the Record Straight

This ordinance does not ban food distribution or medical care. It does not prevent anyone from helping people experiencing homelessness. It requires coordination, safety standards, and sanitation protocols for organized activities in our parks.

Some have suggested this ordinance is inhumane. I reject that claim.

What's inhumane is children encountering improperly disposed needles near playgrounds. What's inhumane is medical treatment without emergency backup or sanitation standards. What's inhumane is families afraid to visit their parks.

Residents who want safe, clean parks are not wrong. Parents who want their children to play without hazards are not being unreasonable.

Partnership and Expanded Reach

The City's Office of Homeless Solutions remains committed to partnering with nonprofit organizations. OHS has offered to attend permitted events in parks, offering resources, services, and connections to shelter.

People experiencing homelessness are throughout our community, not just in parks. From April 2025 to April 2026, 8% of the city's C.A.R.E.S. cases occurred at parks. OHS has dedicated liaison teams serving people in alleys, washes, and parks. We invite organizations to partner with us to expand outreach across the entire city.

Phoenix's Leadership

While Phoenix represents 35% of Maricopa County's population, we provide 83% of shelter beds. Other cities should step up.

Since establishing the Office of Homeless Solutions in 2022, Phoenix has invested $185 million in capital projects and services, with another $40 million proposed for OHS operations next fiscal year.

Moving Forward

This ordinance creates a framework for partnership. Organizations can continue vital work through a permitting process that ensures safety for everyone—those providing services, those receiving them, and families using parks.

I look forward to implementing this ordinance in a way that expands services while maintaining safe, accessible spaces for all Phoenix residents."

Media Contact
Christina Estes, Director of Communications
christina.estes@phoenix.gov
602-520-2762 call or text