Miramar Bans Streetside Panhandling
MIRAMAR (CBS4) - Panhandlers, road side vendors and those collecting for charity are no longer welcome at the major intersections of Miramar.
Beginning Monday roadside soliciting will be banned along Miramar Parkway, South State Road 7, University Drive, Flamingo Road, Pembroke Road and Red Road. City officials approved the tough new ordinance citing safety issues, according to CBS4 news partner The Miami Herald. Police say in 2007 alone 65 people were killed at intersections in the city including a street side newspaper vendor.
Not everyone however is in favor of the ban.
Homeless Voice founder Sean Cononie said the measure is aimed at the homeless who stay in their shelter and sell newspapers to keep it open.
``This is not a safety issue, this is a homelessness issue,'' Ginny Dangola, director of operations for the shelter, told the paper. ``We're safe. They take safety classes twice a week. They wear safety helmets and bright green vests. Our people have never been killed.''
Those caught violating the new ordinance face a fine of up to $500 and 60 days in jail.
Weston, Hollywood and Margate have similar panhandling bans or limitations.
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