Issue link: https://newsleader.uberflip.com/i/227385
PANHANDLING LAW CONSIDERED People stand in the medians at the intersection of U.S. 41 and Gulfstream Avenue in April to solicit donations from drivers. Photo by Norman Schimmel A PROPOSED COUNTY ORDINANCE UP FOR A PUBLIC HEARING IN MARCH WOULD REPLACE AN 'EMERGENCY ORDINANCE' NOW IN PLACE By Roger Drouin County Editor Sarasota County is joining the City of Sarasota they did not want to set a public hearing without in taking a stance on roadside panhandling. first collaborating on the issue with municipalities throughout the county. The county commissioners voted 3-2 Wednesday, Dec. 11, to hold a public hear- At the joint city/county meeting held last ing on a panhandling ordinance that would month to hear homeless consultant Robert replace a temporary, "emergency" ordinance Marbut's 12 strategic recommendations, the now in place. The hearing will likely take place county commissioners agreed to work with in March, according to the cities to address county officials. homelessness in the I want the municipalities to be region. Chairwoman Carolyn partners on this. Mason and Commis– "We made an obligasioner Christine tion and promise that Carolyn Mason Chairwoman Robinson, who cast the we would collaboSarasota County Commission dis enting votes, said s rate, and this is not