City councilors look for ways to address panhandling

City staff will look into ways to address panhandling in Brantford.

Councilors agreed at an operations committee meeting on Tuesday to have city staff prepare a report on the issue, which will come back to them with options by the end of the year.

“We need to respond to concerns expressed by some members of the community who feel disadvantaged by folks who are pressing them to give money at intersections and drive-thrus,” said Coun. Dan McCreary, whose resolution on the matter received unanimous support.

“It creates a level of discomfort, especially for elderly female constituents.”

The resolution said a “high concentration of panhandling activities can have significant negative impacts on local business, tourism and enjoyment of public spaces” and cause safety concerns for motorists, pedestrians and those who are panhandling.

McCreary said city staff can look into what’s being done to address panhandling in other communities.

“It’s not universal,” he said. “It happens in many communities, but not all. There may be different approaches elsewhere that have been successful that we can tag onto. We recognize the vulnerability and needs of people in our community, both from here and folks who have migrated here, with respect to helping them get through some difficult times – helping them be fed, clothed, housed and finding them the medical and psychiatric care that some of them are in need of. This helps to move us in both those directions.”

count. Greg Martin said it’s better to support those in need through organizations mandated to help.

“I understand why people give money to the panhandlers,” said Martin. “Unfortunately, some of them misrepresent their situation. If people want to give money, they’re far better off giving it to organizations that truly help the homeless and people with mental health issues. By giving to those charities, you know the money is going to be used appropriately.

“If panhandlers aren’t successful in getting money, they’ll stop working on those corners and those off-ramps and it will make the situation much safer for everyone involved.”

McCreary’s resolution outlines a range of programs provided by the city, including emergency shelters, shelter diversion, supportive housing, food programs, medical benefits, income replacement, affordable housing and eviction prevention.

“I think this is a very important discussion to have,” said Coun. Rose Sicoli. “I think we’ve all witnessed some very unsafe or scary situations and some close calls on some main roads.

“I think if we get this report back and we review it through a lens of compassion, we can potentially increase safety for everyone regardless of social status.”

The resolution calls for the city staff report to include “recommendations to reduce the impact of panhandling, including options related to permits, bylaw, signage and design features.” It also asks for recommendations to boost awareness of local charitable organizations.