Board of Health rejects camping ban; backs peer support program instead
The Homelessness Advisory Committee heard the Board of Health's recommendation against a camping ban. Director of Public Health Andy Cambi told the committee the health department instead proposed a peer support program modeled on Northampton's work, with trained staff hired through the health
Homelessness Advisory Committee · Meeting of March 4, 2026
PITTSFIELD — The Homelessness Advisory Committee heard the Board of Health's recommendation against a camping ban. Director of Public Health Andy Cambi told the committee the health department instead proposed a peer support program modeled on Northampton's work, with trained staff hired through the health department to rebuild relationships between the city, the unhoused population, and downtown businesses. The program targets sanitation concerns and aims to identify service gaps by partnering with existing providers.
The committee also set April 9 for the next Housing Resource Fair, with Erin Forbush offering to host at the First.
In the full story:
- The complete report — 249 words
Source: the Homelessness Advisory Committee meeting of March 4, 2026, compiled from the official minutes.
Members read the rest of this story and every Pittsfield meeting we cover, in full.
Become a memberAlready a member? Sign inA 30-day free trial needs a payment method. After it, your membership renews at the price shown at checkout until you cancel, which you can do anytime from your account. Subscription terms
Share this brief
Know someone in Pittsfield who follows town government? Share Townbrief Pittsfield: they can sign up free.