Brian Carr
P.O. Box 1455
Lynnwood, WA 98046-1455
brianpcarr@yahoo.com

American Civil Liberites Union
Attn: Legal Assistance Department
705 Second Ave, Suite 300
Seattle, WA 98104-1799

Dear Sir/Madam:

June 11, 2002

I recently discovered that Lynnwood, WA has an ordinance which is purportedly against 'camping' on any public propery. However, it appears that this ordinance is actually intended to get transients and homeless people to not stay in Lynnwood (go elsewhere). Just as the old vagrancy and loitering laws were found unconstitutional because they discriminated against particular groups of citizens without a justifiable cause, I believe that this ordinance may warrant opposition.

The municipal ordinance in Lynnwood, WA is 10.17. The full text can be found at www.msrc.org or brian.carr.name/camptxt.htm. The section of interest states that parking any vehicle on public property (street or parking lot) with the intent to occupy it overnight is a misdemeanor. Similarly, camping paraphenelia is so broadly defined that using any object (such as a blanket, newspapers, cardboard, etc.) with the intent to remain overnight is similarly a misdemeanor.

At the current time I am travelling around the U.S. taking on odd jobs, which really means working as a day laborer at only a little above minimum wage. As such, I can't afford a lot for rent and so have been sleeping in my vehicle (and quite comfortably, by the way). This ordinance does not really inconvenience me much as I just go to commercial parking lots and remain inconspicuous. However, I don't like the idea of such ordinances becoming common place. As such, I would be happy to press this issue, perhaps as a test case as to the validity of the ordinance.

So, I am seeking your input as to whether you believe there really is a basis to oppose this ordinance and whether you believe this is an issue that is worth raising.

Sincerely,

Brian Carr

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