Options for offering shelter to homeless discussed again by La Crosse city leaders

Will the city of La Crosse try offering short-term shelter to the homeless this year?

The city’s executive committee discussed Thursday increasing shelter options and facilitating ending “unauthorized camping” for homeless people.

The city’s unsheltered population staying in La Crosse parks has drawn complaints.

City council member Mackenzie Mindel, who serves on the executive committee, said a camping ban is unlikely if the city does not offer a different type of shelter to people without housing.

Allowing camping has been tried within La Crosse parks in recent years — sometimes with property damage and a large amount of littering happening as a result.

The committee did not take action on any plans at the afternoon meeting, opening the way for possible votes at council meetings in the coming weeks.

The Executive Committee also discussed the possibility of a city administrator position.