And later this month, they expect to pass a law that would allow police to confiscate backpacks and other belongings left unattended on public property.

As the city grapples with its homeless people, city leaders are rolling out laws intended to make Costa Mesa less comfortable for them, especially people from outside the city limits. They are trying to satisfy residents who complain that the homeless overrun public spaces and make it uncomfortable to bring a family to parks or libraries.

But some say the strict enforcement has created a hostile atmosphere and only deals with surface issues. Mayor Eric Bever recently called for administrators to investigate two of the city's most prominent nonprofits because they attract homeless from other cities, he says, and drag down nearby businesses. Read more at The Orange County Register