Issue link: https://newsleader.uberflip.com/i/273295
motion calling for county staff to try once more to work with the City of Sarasota and other municipalities on a standard regulation. Discussions between county and City of Sarasota attorneys thus far have failed to result in agreement on such an approach. Further, at the commissioners' request, over the next few weeks, representatives of the Americans for Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) will be invited to provide comments on a provision of the ordinance that would allow groups and individuals to seek solicitations if they meet specific guidelines. One possible option, based on an Alachua County ordi- nance, is to set aside several days a year when roadside donations can be sought. The county board wants to hear whether the ACLU feels such a provision could be per- ceived as favoring one group or viewpoint over those of other organizations or individuals. A PLEA Firefighters, parents and patients diagnosed with a neuromuscular disease pleaded with the county commissioners on March 5 to let them continue to hold fundraisers such as the "Fill the Boot" campaign, which helps fund a clinic and an MDA summer camp for children suffering from neuromuscular disease. Firefighters stand in roadways to accept dona- tions, which go to the local MDA chapter. The proposed new county solicitation ordinance would offer clear definitions of areas where people might panhandle. Image courtesy Sarasota County Sarasota News Leader March 7, 2014 Page 43