Studer Community Institute

City looks for longterm solutions on panhandling, homelessness

March 13, 2015
/ Mollye Barrows
/ government

The Pensacola City Council will host a workshop to discuss long-term solutions to homelessness. That was one of several decisions made during Thursday night regarding panhandling and homeless issues. The council agreed to a May 11 workshop that will include a briefing on finding permanent solutions to address homelessness. They’re considering inviting other local leaders, including Escambia County Commissioners and law enforcement, to encourage a community approach. “We have to be educated in lock step on order to pursue joint solutions.” said council member Brian Spencer. “I certainly don’t expect us to solve all the problems that day, but a shared a education process is important, especially when it comes to funding solutions.” During the workshop, the council also plans to discuss the recommendations made by the Task Force on Human Services. The task force was formed after the City of Pensacola passed a series of ordinances aimed at curbing outdoor camping and discouraging panhandler that led to public outcry. The city hired national homeless consultant Dr. Robert Marbut to take a look at homelessness in Pensacola and many of his recommendations are included in the task force’s report. Chase Saale was a member of the task force and she spoke at Thursday’s meeting. “As a realtor in the community,” said Saale. “I have a concern about keeping the integrity of the City of Pensacola intact, others would have a humanitarian agenda. Regardless of our differences, we all support the recommendations.” Those recommendations including repealing any ordinances that would criminalize homelessness, except for aggressive panhandling. The council did agree to repeal ordinances regarding the use of public restrooms and public elimination of waste, but did not support Council President Andy Terhaar’s recommendation to expand the no-panhandling zone to include the intersection at Bayfront Parkway and 17^th Avenue. Several community members spoke on the issues of panhandling and homelessness before the council, including residents and homeless service providers, who encouraged the council not to support any laws that related to criminalizing homeless issues. Council member Jewel Cannada-Wynn also asked for clarification on the difference between panhandlers and the homeless. John Johnson, executive director of EscaRosa Coalition on the Homeless, was there and answered her question. “My research and data shows that just because someone is homeless, that does not necessarily make them a panhandler and panhandlers are not necessarily homeless,” Johnson said. “In fact, I’ve witnessed people that actually panhandled and were not homeless, they got in their vehicle and drove away. There’s a percentage of those that are out there, begging for money and they dress to get money.” The council did agree to pass a resolution supporting the Florida League of Cities efforts to get state legislation passed that would make funding available for communities to address homeless issues. Council members and other community members who spoke are hopeful the workshop in May will help lead to long term solutions.

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City looks for longterm solutions on panhandling, homelessness

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