BANGOR, Maine — The Bangor City Council has temporarily paused its plan to clear a homeless encampment along the rail tracks between Washington and Exchange streets, originally scheduled for Dec. 19.

During a city council workshop on Friday, councilors said more time is needed to ensure people living at the site have access to housing and support.

“They’re not afraid of the trains. They’re not afraid of the snow,” Councilor Michael Beck said. “You know what they’re afraid of? Us and what we’re going to do to them.”

City leaders said roughly 20 people still live at the encampment, and nearly half of them have received housing vouchers or are in the process of getting them. But with limited indoor options, the city cannot house everyone before the original deadline.

"With a week to go, w

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