On December 9, 2011, Mayor Peter Carlisle signed into law Bill 54, which prohibits keeping personal items in public areas such as sidewalks and parks. The mayor's office stated that the bill was not intended to specifically target homeless camps, but rather is designed to help increase the enjoyment of public spaces for all residents. However, this past week written notices were given to homeless people camped near Moiliili Field, Old Stadium Park and Pawaa In-Ha Park. The homeless were told that they had 24 hours to remove their personal items, which included tents, furniture and clothing, or the city would have a right to impound them. The city also stated that items could not be moved to another public property. Per the new law, impounded property would be stored for 30 days. If items were not claimed during that time, they would be sold, donated or discarded.
