Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Mayor Reinstates Homeless Sweeps Amid Cold Snap Criticism

2/18/2026

38 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Mayor Zohran Mamdani has reinstated homeless encampment sweeps, reversing his pledge to end them.
The Department of Homeless Services will lead the sweeps, with outreach workers connecting the homeless with services.
The change follows criticism over a cold snap that caused 19 deaths and over 3,300 complaints.
City Council Speaker Julie Menin said the deaths should not have occurred.

1 of 1

Story summary

Mayor Zohran Mamdani has reinstated homeless encampment sweeps, reversing his pledge to end them.
The Department of Homeless Services will lead the sweeps, with outreach workers connecting the homeless with services.
The change follows criticism over a cold snap that caused 19 deaths and over 3,300 complaints.
City Council Speaker Julie Menin said the deaths should not have occurred.