Issue link: https://newsleader.uberflip.com/i/227385
Sarasota News Leader December 13, 2013 Page 43 collaborating," Robinson said of the proposed struck down part of a city ordinance related action Wednesday. to panhandling. "I just don't think this is carrying through with the spirit of that meeting," Mason pointed out, referring to the joint session on Nov. 25. "I want something permanent, but I am thinking back on that meeting and I want the municipalities to be partners on this." The three other commissioners agreed they want to work with the municipalities, but they voted for the ordinance after being cautioned by County Attorney Stephen DeMarsh to move forward "without delay" with the new law. The existing emergency ordinance was approved in February. That measure was enacted to prevent a legal challenge similar to one faced by the City of Sarasota over its panhandling ordinance. DeMarsh recommended it after a 12th Judicial Circuit Court ruling DeMarsh pointed out in February that the county ordinance was intended only as a temporary measure to keep people from holding signs in the middle of busy roadways. On Wednesday, staff presented tweaks to the emergency ordinance that would better define places where people cannot solicit donations, including medians, sidewalks and road surfaces. The proposed law does not include exemptions or permits for charitable organizations. If enacted, the new ordinance would regulate roadside panhandling only in the unincorporated areas of the county, but Patterson said she still wanted to hear comments on it from city leaders. A man stands alongside Bee Ridge Road in April, asking for help. Photo by Norman Schimmel