Mayor Frey Moves to Stop Property Owner from Reopening Homeless Encampment Following Mass Shooting

Mayor Frey Moves to Stop Property Owner from Reopening Homeless Encampment Following Mass Shooting

Minneapolis, MN — Minneapolis city officials, led by Mayor Jacob Frey, are seeking a temporary restraining order against property owner Hamoudi Sabri to prevent him from re-establishing a homeless encampment on his private lot. The legal action comes after a mass shooting at the encampment left multiple people injured, intensifying an ongoing dispute between the city and Sabri over public health and safety concerns.

Background of the Conflict

Encampment’s Genesis: Hamoudi Sabri, a commercial developer and landlord, opened his vacant lot near E. Lake Street and 28th Avenue S. to people experiencing homelessness earlier this summer. Sabri described the site as a “hub” for those in need and a way to draw attention to the city’s inadequate response to homelessness.

City’s Stance: Minneapolis officials have long sought to close the encampment, citing multiple safety hazards, including lack of sanitation facilities, open fires, drug paraphernalia, and general unsafe conditions. The city has issued Sabri approximately $15,000 in citations and fines for violations related to the property.

Legal Action: After Sabri refused to comply with orders to clear the lot, the Minneapolis City Council voted 6-4 to authorize a lawsuit declaring the encampment a “public health nuisance.” City officials argue the encampment poses ongoing risks to both residents and the surrounding community.

Recent Escalation

Mass Shooting: The conflict escalated late Monday night when a mass shooting occurred at the encampment, injuring seven people. Authorities say the violence underscores the dangers inherent in unsupervised encampments.

Mayor Frey’s Response: Mayor Frey pledged to clear the site immediately after the crime scene was processed, stating, “We’re shutting this thing down. If he wants to sue us, he can.” Frey emphasized that allowing encampments on private property without oversight entrenches harm and public safety risks.

Property Owner’s Defiance: Sabri, who has been vocal about the city’s handling of homelessness, criticized the city’s actions as “displacement” and “political theater.” He argued that the city is failing to address systemic housing issues and vowed to continue allowing people to stay on his property unless a court order prevents him.

Current Status

On Tuesday morning, city crews and police cleared the encampment. The city’s legal team is now seeking a temporary restraining order at a Wednesday afternoon hearing to prevent Sabri from reopening the site. Sabri assured the court he would not allow the encampment to resume until the judge issues a ruling.

The dispute highlights the broader challenges Minneapolis faces in balancing property rights with the urgent need to provide safe, humane solutions for people experiencing homelessness. City officials and advocates are closely monitoring the proceedings, seeking a resolution that addresses public safety while acknowledging the systemic causes of homelessness.

MinneapoliMedia