After an hours-long closed door session - and another few hours of debate - the Minneapolis City Council voted to sue a landlord who has allowed a homeless encampment on his southside property.
The city has already issued multiple fines and citations for health violations against Hamoudi Sabri, but hasn't been able to clear the encampment because it's on his private property.
Minneapolis City Councilmember Latrisha Vetaw says it's their duty to act.
"When we're told that something is a public health crisis that we should address it, and that is exactly what this is as I've said to my colleagues," says Vetaw. "I've been there several times and the public health crisis is visible. You can smell it."
The encampment is near Lake Street and 28th Avenue South.
Councilmembers who opposed taking legal action say there aren't enough shelter beds available to house those who will be displaced.
Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O'Hara is already on record saying should be shut down.
"Well, there's no question that that hasn't been helpful for both the people that are there in the encampment, as well as the people who live there in the neighborhood," O'Hara says. "It's not healthy, it's not safe, and frankly, it's not helping the problem."
Sabri said back in August that he's being targeted for doing what the city won't.
"I am here just for the homeless," Sabri says. "I believe they're abused and the reason they're here is they've been kicked around a lot."
Sabri's parking lot was declared a public health nuisance by the city earlier this summer, with no public toilets or running water, and nearby business owners and neighbors reporting an uptick in drug dealing and paraphanelia.
Sabri has not paid his fines and has so far refused to close the encampment down unless he is presented with a court order.
Councilmember Aisha Chugtai is among those who opposed taking legal action.
"Humanity is not a lawsuit, dignity is not a lawsuit, and concern for public health and public well-being is not found in a lawsuit," Chugtai said.
Sabri has allowed city staff onto his property to clear away trash and debris but has not allowed them to remove anyone's personal property. It's not clear how soon the city will serve Sabri with a lawsuit.
Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey released the following statement on the issue: "True compassion means safe shelter, basic sanitation, and healthy living conditions — none of which are present at this encampment. Today’s action gives us another tool to both address these unsafe conditions and safeguard nearby residents, students, and businesses. I appreciate the City Council’s partnership on the matter.”