The City Council today passed a measure banning the storage of furniture, clothing and other personal property in public areas such as sidewalks and parks.

Mayor Peter Carlisle has 10 working days to approve, veto or let the bill become law without his signature. The administration has supported the measure as a means to make public spaces accessible to all users. The city also says that while the bill does not target homeless, it would be an avenue to provide outreach for assisting homeless.

Bill 54 was approved 8-1, with Councilman Romy Cachola voting in opposition. Cachola unsuccessfully tried to amend the bill to have it expire after one year, giving the Council the opportunity to review it and determine its effectiveness. He said he had concerns over the cost of implementing the bill, though the city has said it would work within its existing budget.

Councilman Nestor Garcia changed his stance from previous votes, voting in support today saying he wanted to see the measure pass to give the city and state a tool it needs to expand its outreach to the homeless and help get people off the streets.