The City of Binghamton put the issue of camping in parks to sleep as councilors approved an ordinance that restricts overnight stays in city spaces. However, some feel they're being singled out by the new measure. YNN's Chris Whalen reports.

  To view our videos, you need to
enable JavaScript. Learn how.
install Adobe Flash 9 or above. Install now.

Then come back here and refresh the page.

BINGHAMTON, N.Y. -- After speaking out against a proposed ban on camping in city parks, dissenters let their voices be heard once again after Binghamton City Council approved the measure 6-1.

The vocal critics were escorted out of City Council Chambers after Council enacted the measure that will change the City Code of Ordinance, limiting the ability for people to camp in public parks.

Opponents say the ordinance singles out both members of the Occupy movement, as well as the city's homeless population.

"This is, very nakedly, a measure aimed at curbing a form of protest that has converted the raising of tents into a mode of political dissent," said David Chirico, a Binghamton resident.

"When I see someone sleeping under an awning, or curled up on a park bench, or a pile of blankets unmistakably concealing the contour of a human body, I don't see a public nuisance or a threat to my community," said Dan Livingston, also a Binghamton resident.

However, some members of City Council see it as a potential liability.

"We are self-insured, so if folks are camping in our parks and, God forbid, somebody get hurt, the city is going to be liable for that, or could potentially be liable for that, and it could present a tremendous risk," said Council President Teri Rennia.

Councilors said they don't want to completely outlaw the ability for people to use parks, so an amendment was made to the ordinance that states anyone wishing to camp in a park must get written permission for the Department of Parks and Recreation as well as appropriate insurance.