Panhandler Ordinance Up For Final Vote Tonight

Rochester could have a so-called panhandler ordinance in force soon.

The City Council is scheduled to give the ordinance its second reading tonight. The Council could then vote on the ordinance or make some changes before acting.

It was approved last month on a 5 - 2 vote with Councilmembers Means and Wojcik voting against the proposal.  Mayor Ardell Brede - who vetoed an earlier plan to address panhandling in the city - told the Council he won’t veto this ordinance.

Supporters say the ordinance will prevent aggressive panhandling. It would apply to certain areas, such as ATM’s and public outdoor dining areas. If it is approved tonight, the ordinance would take effect this coming Saturday.