TELL US: Should Concord Implement New Aggressive Panhandling Laws?

On Feb. 11, the Concord City Council will hold a public hearing to consider a new "aggressive panhandling" ordinance that officials hope will improve the safety of city residents.

The legal department, according to the Jan. 14, council packet (click here to download a pdf), drafted the ordinance.

If approved, the ordinance would create a criminal structure by which panhandling problems could be addressed if the panhandler knowingly makes physical conduct with another person, is likely to cause intimidation, is within five feet of a person, or impends safe pedestrian or vehicular passage, uses intimidating words or gestures, or approaches anyone in a reckless manner.

“Aggressive panhandling” would be banned from all public spaces and would be banned from within 20 feet of an ATM machine, bus shelter, parking garage, lot or facility, or sidewalk or motor vehicle.

Fines of $75 for the first violation, $150 for the second violation, and misdemeanor charges would result after the third violation.

The council meets at 7 p.m. on Feb. 11, in the council chambers to discuss the matter.

What do you think of the aggressive panhandling ordinance? Is it tough enough? Is it unsympathetic? What would you do if you were a councilor? Leave a note in the comment section.