The biggest issue is, who, in fact is the owner of the land where homeless encampments like the one located beneath the 5th Street Bridge can be found.

That site is in the right of way of both the West Virginia Department of Highways and CSX Railroad. Bbut their officials Thursday couldn't tell us which part of it is their property. Even so, Mayor Bob Newell says people who choose to live there can't be charged with a felony.

"We can cite them for trespassing if the landowner, in fact, makes a complaint," the mayor explains. "But that's not a jailable offense."

And the situation, says the mayor, is much like that of any homeowner. Evicting them, if that choice is made, requires going through the legal process.

Mayor Newell notes that the problem is not confined to the 5th Street Bridge. He says other bridges in town, notably the East Street Bridge, have also known to be places where homeless people congregate.

"The old marble factory, I understand, is down there as well, and that's private property. So it's usually along the river."

The temporary shelter under the 5th Street Bridge, ironically, is located within sight of the Parkersburg Salvation Army. But the mayor says it's one of the organizations which can help.

"If people want to help what they perceive is wrong down there, they can give money to the Salvation Army, House to Home, and the organizations who will actually feed, clothe and shelter people who are, in fact, in need."

Earlier this year, Parkersburg firefighters were called to put out a fire in the same area underneath the 5th Street bridge...which was determined to be intentionally set.