70 businesses sign letter asking Columbia City Council to consider ‘urban camping ordinance’

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

Downtown Columbia businesses are asking the city to consider an urban camping ordinance.

According to Nickie Davis, executive director of Columbia's Downtown Community Improvement District, roughly 70 businesses have signed a letter asking the city to research and consider the ordinance.

Davis stated last week that the Downtown CID planned to send a proposal letter to the City Council by Friday. At least two local business owners were able to speak to ABC 17 News about reasons for their support last week.

Davis after Tuesday afternoon’s CID meeting said the request is expected to be discussed at the next City Council meeting on Monday.

The proposal has been met with criticism online.

ABC 17 News has asked for a copy of the letter.