[Peace-discuss] Panhandling update - see revised version coming to council Monday

[Danielle Chynoweth]

Dear friends and neighbors,

We are very close to beating Urbana's proposed panhandling ordinance - but
we're not done yet.

We have turned out 30+ people, gathered 300 signatures, and have been able
to convince a majority of council members that asking for money should not
be a crime.  Two weeks ago, a it seemed likely that the council was going to
pass this draconian law.

This Monday, council will be discussing panhandling again.  Here is the
latest version they are considering:
http://urbanaillinois.us/sites/default/files/attachments/ordinance-2011-07-099.pdf

It would ban aggressive panhandling, panhandling in a group of two or more,
and panhandling near an ATM or bank or on private property if asked not to
or a sign is posted.  See language below.

At this point I oppose this ordinance all together because the city has not
yet answered how existing laws are inadequate the concerns.  If they are
going to ban aggression, I think it should not be tied to asking for money
but include things like sexual harrassment.

*Please read and show up Monday at 7 PM to voice your ideas, concerns and
ensure accountability on a vote.*

Here's is what would be prohibited:
Aggressive panhandling means panhandling in a group of two or more persons
or panhandling accompanied by any of the following actions:

(1)   Touching another person without that person’s consent;
(2)    Blocking the path of the person solicited or blocking the entrance
to any building or vehicle;
(3)    Continuing to solicit or to request a donation from a person after
that person has refused an earlier request;
(4)    Following or remaining alongside a person who walks away from the
panhandler after being solicited;
(5)    Making any statement, gesture, or other communication that would
cause a reasonable person to feel threatened or to feel compelled
to make a donation; or
(6) Using profane or abusive language during the solicitation or
following a refusal to make a donation.

No person shall engage in panhandling when the person solicited is located:
- Within twenty feet (20’) of an automated teller machine (ATM) or entrance
to a bank, other financial institution, or check cashing business; or
- On private property, if the owner, tenant, or occupant has asked the
person not to panhandle on the property or has posted a sign prohibiting
soliciting.

thanks!
Danielle
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