DES MOINES, Iowa —

The Des Moines City Council on Monday night passed the first reading to clarify its prohibited camping and sleeping ordinance.

The city is considering eliminating a section of the ordinance to add clarity around enforcement and service connections.

The city is also talking about a new partnership with CISS, Central Iowa Shelter and Services. The agreement is meant to reinforce the process and expand help for people living outdoors.

City Councilor Chris Coleman said the focus is on improving understanding and access to services.

“Good people recognize that a problem had to be solved, and we came together and solved it,” he said.

Under the agreement, the city will provide a one-time $300,000 cash reserve for shelter operations and assign Des Moines police officers to

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