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Giving Money to Panhandlers Will Cost Anchorage DriversAnchorage police are giving out warnings to drivers who give handouts to panhandlers but this weekend you'll be fined.Related Content
Today, Anchorage police began handing out warnings to drivers across the community for giving handouts to panhandlers. The Sullivan administration along with several social service organizations re-launched a campaign Wednesday called “Change for the Better,” which is intended to help reduce panhandlers across the city by targeting drivers who give handouts while stopped at a traffic light.
The ordinance was created over six years ago and now Anchorage Mayor Dan Sullivan is looking to enforce it in full force starting this weekend.
“I don’t think there was the will before to enforce the ordinance, under this administration there is that will,” he said “We will make sure we have a true comprehensive campaign, not just nibble at the problem, but do our best to eliminate the problem.”
The ordinance is meant to increase public safety for both drivers and pedestrians.
“I have responded to accidents from panhandlers that have gotten hit,” said Anchorage Police Officer Nate Mitchell.
But some drivers said they are being unfairly targeted.
“I don’t think it’s right to fine the driver for that. I think the panhandler should get the fine, if he’s not a licensed panhandler,” said Mikki Palkovitch, an Anchorage driver.
And for the homeless, including Dwight Milligrock, asking for money will become a greater challenge.
“It’s going to be a little tougher, have to… I don’t know, work,” he said.
Starting this Saturday, drivers who give handouts to panhandlers will be fined $50 for the first offense, $100 for a second offense and $300 for a third offense.
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YOUGO said on Tuesday, May 10 at 4:30 PM
IT ABOUT TIME SOMEONE DOES SOMETHING ABOUT THOSE BUMS...GET A JOB
66819587babysetter said on Friday, May 6 at 7:40 AM
Well well looks like Uncle Sam is taking control over every aspect. Can't hand over money out your window. Is this state so hard up for funds? Is this what its comming down to. Let see now how can we blame this on Sara.
66587551Common Sense said on Friday, May 6 at 7:11 AM
You can't legislate away every element of risk from every aspect of life! You might "reduce panhandlers" by making it illegal to contribute, but what becomes of them? Just because you don't have to look at them doesn't mean there's not a lot of homeless, hopeless people out there who need HELP.
66585449Robert Lee said on Friday, May 6 at 6:32 AM
When one considers that the city allows "Fill the Boot", there is a 14th Amendment "Equal Rights Clause" violation in having such a fine. This mayor needs an education.
66582912Alaska said on Thursday, May 5 at 9:56 PM
I think this is BS.....especially in the times we are living in right now. Granted these people need better guidance but they need help until they recieve that kinda help or programs.....they have nothing and no will for it. This is a Police state now and its SO CORRUPT!
66567293foodserver said on Thursday, May 5 at 9:42 PM
i know dwight m. from bean's and the buses. i've sat with non-toxic dwight at the midtown wal-mart mcdonalds, looking at alaska books. i've csp-called for a very-toxic dwight seated at a midtown bus stop after he "missed" his appt at anmc. hey buddy this is a sad way to be on tv, but you're on tv and i'll see you next week! :)
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