Antioch moves to boot downtown encampment

Residents of a homeless encampment near downtown Antioch are being asked to clear out by Monday so the accumulated garbage, human waste and hazardous materials can be abated, according to city officials.

Thursday, or possibly Friday, the city plans to post a 72-hour notice to vacate at the encampment on private property near the intersection of McElheny Road and East Sixth Street.

According to Antioch’s Community Development Department’s Code Enforcement Division, the encampment violates local zoning laws prohibiting blight and tent encampments on this particular property.

Moreover, they intend to seek reimbursement from the property owner for any expenses they incur during the abatement process.

Other agencies planning to participate in the operation include the Antioch Police Department, City of Antioch Animal Control, county Health Services Community Outreach Referral and Engagement as well as county Mental Health Services.