Minneapolis Council Approves Lawsuit Against Owner of Homeless Encampment Property

The Minneapolis City Council has authorized legal action against property owner Hamoudi Sabri for refusing to clear a homeless encampment on his property at East Lake Street and 28th Avenue SE, which city officials describe as a public health crisis. The encampment, housing up to 60 people, has been cited for issues including drug paraphernalia, trash, lack of sanitation, and unsafe living conditions, prompting the city to declare the site a public nuisance. Despite city cleanup efforts and citations totaling approximately $15,000, Sabri has resisted, arguing that current homelessness policies are ineffective. Mayor Jacob Frey emphasized the need for safe shelter and sanitation, framing the council's action as a tool to protect both encampment residents and the surrounding community. Council members will likely discuss the matter in a closed session, reflecting the complexity of balancing public health concerns with homelessness challenges. This legal move follows ongoing efforts by the city to manage homelessness while addressing residents' safety and public health.