Sense of Senate Resolution on Announced Changes in Parking Enforcement that Impacts Students Living In Vehicles

CAL POLY HUMBOLDT

University Senate

Sense of the Senate Resolution on

Announced Changes in Parking Enforcement that Impacts Students Living In Vehicles

06-23/24-Woglom – November 7, 2023

WHEREAS: On October 20, 2023, Cal Poly Humboldt messaged the campus community via no-reply@humboldt.edu with the subject line “Enforcement of Parking Regulations” and email text that described the intention to enforce parking regulations pertaining to those living in recreational and other vehicles in campus parking lots;

WHEREAS: The announcement characterized students living out of vehicles as creating “fear” and generating “unsanitary and unsafe conditions,” language that students reported caused harm to them and broader campus communities; 

WHEREAS: The timing of this announced change in parking policy enforcement effectively disrupts and displaces students’ lives at an already high stress period of the semester;

WHEREAS: The timing of this announcement jeopardizes the retention and success of affected students; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the University Senate of Cal Poly Humboldt asks that the University pause enforcement of “Parking Code of Rules and Regulations 2515. Use of Motor Vehicles for Living of Overnight Sleeping” at least through end of academic year 23-24; and be it further

RESOLVED, That the University includes the collective wisdom of the members of the University community, including Associated Students, University Senate, students living in their vehicles, including The Alternative Living Club, and involved community organization leaders in the related decision-making and communication processes regarding overnight sleeping in vehicles; and be it further

RESOLVED, that the University Senate, through the Appointments and Election Committee, appoint active members to the existing, but long dormant, Parking and Transportation Committee, and that that committee be tasked by the Senate Executive Committee to review potential long term solutions for students living in vehicles, inclusive of potential new infrastructure for University parking or a safe parking programs, and be it further

RESOLVED, That this Sense of the Senate be disseminated to:

• President Jackson
• Cal Poly Humboldt Senate
• Associated Students
• Staff Council
• Risk Management
• ERFSA
• Housing 
• UPD
• California State Student Association 
• ASCSU