Panhandling at stop signs

[PJJ]

Is there a permit required to beg at 30a intersections? I understand the annual firefighters' boot fundraiser, I have a healthy line 18 on my 1040, and I'm generous with my time and talents, but I take offense to getting hit up half a dozen times in one trip if I head from Seagrove to the Grayton cash and carry to pay for someone else's kid to go on a softball trip, etc.

I get that certain groups need to raise money for good causes, but begging at intersections is the lowest form of fundraising. It's worse this year than previous years.

[Vitamin D]

I was held up yesterday at TWO intersections, by the same group. The driver in front not only handed over some cash, but proceeded to have a very lengthly conversation with the "panhandler". I was late for work because of it.

There is enough congestion on 30A without adding this to it !

[SWGB]

Call the Sheriff's office. 267-2000

I did this to a group from Pensacola recently and 45 minutes later their butts were gone. I have no problem supporting local charities and do to the detriment of my bank account and free time, but if your child chose to get on a paid softball team, cheer leading squad, etc. then get out of our intersections and get a job. To me it's the absolute height of teaching your kids the wrong thing.

One year they did it at Grayton and were from Pensacola. One woman actually stated they came over here because they heard there were people with money. They weren't even staying here. Although if your parents can rent a house in Grayton over a major holiday weekend then you probably shouldn't be panhandling.

[jodiFL]

I agree with SWGB..the absolute worst thing a parent can do! I would not dare sign my kids up for an activity that I couldnt afford to pay for. Panhandling is not the same as "fundraising" and they should be told to make the kids "get a job" instead of "begging on the street corner".

p.s.. I wonder how their neighbors would think about it if word and pics got out of them "begging"? And how do we know if their kid is even doing whatever they say they want the money for? The people that give them $$ could just be off- setting the cost of the vacation the parents cant afford.

[TreeFrog]

I expect the Sheriff's office might have some issues with the traffic jams. You'd hope, anyway. The last one I got caught in created a colossal jamup at 395-30A.

[seanote]

The firefighter's boot fundraiser never bothered me, but now every week there is an organization out there.

[Smiling JOe]

The real problem with them standing in the road is safety, not only for them, but for the drivers. The four-way stop doesn't work so well when people are held up because they are chatting or digging out money to donate. Someone is going to be seriously hurt.

They wouldn't be there if people didn't donate, so one way to get them to leave is not to donate.

[scooterbug44]

Unless they are uniformed firefighters, I am calling the Sheriff.

If everyone does so, the problem will quickly be solved.

[PJJ]

Unless they are uniformed firefighters, I am calling the Sheriff.

If everyone does so, the problem will quickly be solved.

That's why I posted in the first place. Well, that and to verify that I wasn't the only one receiving smug, self-righteous looks from the groups begging on the road.

[SWGB]

The real problem with them standing in the road is safety, not only for them, but for the drivers. The four-way stop doesn't work so well when people are held up because they are chatting or digging out money to donate. Someone is going to be seriously hurt.

They wouldn't be there if people didn't donate, so one way to get them to leave is not to donate.

The truly scary part is these people stand on the center line and wear an orange vest as though that will keep them safe against a 2,000 pound vehicle, it's nerve wracking as all hail.

[Bob Wells FF 2]

I wear a Helmet and a Vest

[justhavinfun]

OK - so we have the start of the Memorial Day weekend and the summer/tourist season and at the busiest intersection on 30A, we have another group seeking donations! Who from our county is the rocket scientist that approved this???

[Douglas the Intrepid]

OK - so we have the start of the Memorial Day weekend and the summer/tourist season and at the busiest intersection on 30A, we have another group seeking donations! Who from our county is the rocket scientist that approved this???

If its not the firefighters, call the police and they will remove them...

[miznotebook]

If it's on a county road, they must have a permit and must have it with them. They are not allowed to block traffic. Attached are the standards that the county commissioners approved last week for panhandling/solicitations, which was said to be just putting the county's ongoing policy in written form.DocumentView.pdf

[Beach Bimmer]

Today a well-known charity had their buckets out at two of the 30-A intersections we crossed. They quite clearly had volunteers standing in the middle of the road, not on the side.

Correct me if I'm wrong, but doesn't that Walton County permit say they must stand on the side of the road (right-of-way), not in it, unless a donation is being offered from a vehicle?

BTW, we had no issue with the particular charity - it's just the idea of folks distracting drivers by standing in the middle of the road on 30-A at busy intersections. Playing in traffic is never a good idea, especially when we have vacationers in town who may already be distracted by the scenic beauty of 30-A...

[Bob Wells FF 2]

I went through there and in my opinion, they were not impedeing traffic, and they were in the middle of the road. Those folks who do impede traffic, bicycles on 30A and folks who hesitate to make a move at a designated crosswalk

[justhavinfun]

Bicycles are a whole other issue that needs to be addressed by our elected officials but these kind volunteers from HFH (Which I have worked with) are having a fundraiser at the wrong time. Regardless of their position, just by nature they were slowing traffic down on a major tourist weekend. Certainly I can't be the only person cranky about this?

[soappedaler]

Since this was brought up, here's the Florida State law on bicycle use http://www.dot.state.fl.us/safety/pe...bikeLaws1.shtm
The use of bicycles on roadways is covered in detail

[joho]

I'm going to side with Justhavinfun. I not only oppose of groups standing in the middle of 30A distracting locals who know where they're going but tourists who are rubbing necking up and down 30A. This is especially a busy weekend and not only do I think it could be dangerous but what kind of presence does this set for visitors. I'm sure most of them gave at the office on Friday.

[GoodWitch58]

I think it is a really bad idea anytime for any group. I will not donate in traffic...there are much better ways to get contributions for worthy causes...ways that do not entail endangering anyone...to do it during a summer holiday on 30A is beyond inappropriate IMO.

[NotDeadYet]

I'm with Glenda on this one. There are too many distractions already on 30a. I think it is dangerous. T(he firefighters are the only group I trust to not make some stupid move. (one group of kids one time even had a dog with them - the dog was out in the street with the kids)
Beach Bimmer, it says "right of way" not side of the road. It seems to me that "right of way" includes the entire road as well as the side of the road that is a part of the county right of way. I think you would need to ask the county attorney to be sure. If they meant "side of the road" they probably should have been more specific.

[30A Skunkape]

How many softball national championships could there possibly be?

[miznotebook]

They use the same permit for the bucket drives/fund raisers as for other roadway activities by nonprofits such as parades and races, which are actually in the road. That must be the reason they just say "right-of-way."

[MrMentalFitness]

I'm just shocked that anybody has the stones to stand out there - what are they, Evel Knievel or sumpm? Some of them are just plain reckless, though well-meaning. There's been a couple times where only my exceedingly marvelous driving skills has prevented catastrophe. I love charity, but sometimes people just overdo it and it becomes a shakedown. In this case, a safety-risking shakedown.

[poppy]

I would rather give to the panhandlers than give to these groups, at least with the panhandlers I know exactly who gets the money.

[wrobert]

And the liquor store owners appreciate it.

[Henry Apfelbach]

The Firefighters have been collecting for MDA for a very long time now. It's our tradition to have a "boot drive". I want to thank the generous citizens of Walton County for always making our collection efforts a success. We make sure that all our collectors are wearing high visibilit vests and a helmet. We have never had an incident and I realize that we may sometimes inconvience you, but the people who benefit from the research we help fund would probably also thank you for you patience. Once again thank you for your support. Also, it should be noted that some of the guys are allowed to collect on duty, but many of us attend on our own time. This in the past has been a joint effort between the SWFD and SWPFFA. So, I would also like to thank Chief Rick Talbert for his continued support with this effort.

[Andy A]

Your collection efforts are well known and a legend for many of us around here. There are exceptions to every event and yours should be one of them. I fully understand and support the "boot drive" and wish you continued success with it. That said, I feel all other collections at four way stops should be eliminated.

[Jdarg]

How many softball national championships could there possibly be?

And are any of the team members from South Walton? I had never seen any of these kids before in my life. Why can't they panhandle in their own neighborhood and at least let our local non-profits solicit donations ON OUR OWN CORNERS. Or maybe we should send our groups up to Niceville on the weekends?

Oh wait! People don't go to Niceville for vacation! Silly me!

[kurt]

http://defuniakherald.com/?p=3563

Officials OK roadside solicitation/activity policy

By DOTTY NIST

In response to recent complaints about roadside solicitation and “panhandling” in Walton County, county commissioners have approved a set of policies for nonprofit organizations wanting to hold fundraising drives or other events along the county right-of-way.

At the Walton County Board of County Commissioners (BCC) May 24 regular meeting in DeFuniak Springs Gerry Demers, acting county administrator, presented the comissioners with a document setting forth permitting policies for these activities. Demers said the document put in writing policies that Walton County Administration had been following for several years.

A permit from county administration is required in order for nonprofit organizations to use the county right-of-way for fundraising or events. These may include marches, parades, races, festivals, bucket drives, or any activity that may affect traffic or require assistance by law enforcement. Use of the right-of-way is not allowed for organizations, businesses or individuals other than nonprofits.

State roadways are a separate issue, and the state Department of Transportation must approve any use of the state right-of-way for events or fund raising.

Nonprofits are encouraged to contact county administration as soon as possible when planning roadway activities or fund raisers to discuss their plans, in order to avoid a conflict with activities planned by other organizations. They are required to apply for a roadside activity permit as soon as possible, and not less than 30 days before the activity is to take place.

There is a limit of two permits per year per organization.

Nonprofits must demonstrate that the activity or event “has a charitable benefit for the citizens of Walton County.”

Bucket drive fundraisers will not be permitted during holidays.

Activity organizers are required to coordinate with all local government agencies that may be impacted by the activity, including but not limited to the Walton County Sheriff’s Office, Walton County Code Enforcement, and fire officials.

Volunteers and other individuals participating in the roadside activities are required to wear safety vests and follow safety practices. They must be instructed not to block private driveways or other entrances to private property.

Signs for the activity may go up two days in advance and must be removed within two days afterward. Sign size is limited to 18 inches by 24 inches, and signs must be put up with wire stakes.

The document states, “When conducting bucket drive fundraising, all participants must be on the county right-of-way. Participants may approach a vehicle to collect contributions, but must not hold up traffic.”

An additional requirement is that a copy of the approved permit for the activity must be kept on location at all times.

Applications for nonprofits to use the county right-of-way are available on the Walton County Web site, www.co.walton.fl.us.

The commissioners approved the document by unanimous vote. Later, in response to public comment, they agreed to consider at a later date allowing nonprofits to do fund raisers more often than twice a year, once they have gauged how the adopted policy is working.

[30A Skunkape]

And are any of the team members from South Walton? I had never seen any of these kids before in my life. Why can't they panhandle in their own neighborhood and at least let our local non-profits solicit donations ON OUR OWN CORNERS. Or maybe we should send our groups up to Niceville on the weekends?

Oh wait! People don't go to Niceville for vacation! Silly me!

Speak for yourself. That Po Folks fried chicken is worth a long weekend.

[rdelong43065]

Speak for yourself. That Po Folks fried chicken is worth a long weekend.

I vacation in Lynn Haven so I can have Po Folks.

[joho]

I'm going to side with Justhavinfun. I not only oppose of groups standing in the middle of 30A distracting locals who know where they're going but tourists who are rubbing necking up and down 30A. This is especially a busy weekend and not only do I think it could be dangerous but what kind of presence does this set for visitors. I'm sure most of them gave at the office on Friday.

"Bucket drive fundraisers will not be permitted during holidays."

If you look at the date of my post it was during the Memorial Weekend this was conducted. I think the county needs better supervision on these panhandlers!

[Just Curious]

If you look at the date of the article you will notice that the policy was approved after the Memorial Day weekend.

[Bob Hudson]

I suggest you read the article and click on her link to look at the ordinance and see that it was passed on May 24th - prior to the Holiday in question.

Also the article states it was passed on the 24th.

The article in the Herald was published after the holiday.

[miznotebook]

Sheriff Adkinson told us last week that anyone with concerns about panhandling or groups collecting money on the roadside should contact his office, and his personnel will check to see if they have a permit for the activity. The phone number is 267-2000.

[Jdarg]

And are any of the team members from South Walton? I had never seen any of these kids before in my life. Why can't they panhandle in their own neighborhood and at least let our local non-profits solicit donations ON OUR OWN CORNERS. Or maybe we should send our groups up to Niceville on the weekends?

I have had a total mind change on this one. Why is this OK?

We are 3 days into heavy spring break traffic and the thought of having to deal with panhandling at the 2 busiest 30A intersections makes me pretty angry. Many citizens have complained, and for whatever reason, it is still allowed. I don't care if the group is local or out of town- I participate with several local non-profits and a public school, and fundraising is always the biggest challenge, but we don't stand in the middle of the road as a disruption and a distraction in order to raise money.

I am going to email the commissioners and so should you, and call the Sheriff - the phone number is 267-2000.

[Andy A]

Not that it matters, but I completely concur.

[Bob Wells]

It is legal except for holidays. The requirement as I was lead to believe is that you have to have liability insurance. It is also an effective way to raise funds. If you don't want to give, don't. I have yet to see anyone out there with a gun trying to rob anyone. The biggest issue is the lack of patience, saw a motorcycle pull through the intersection when it was not his turn and almost get t-boned and another vehicle did the same thing. These are such minor inconveniences be patient you'll get where you are going.

[30A Skunkape]

While some sound charities/causes benefit from shaking their boots and buckets, it really needs to stop. Too many people just don't know where they are going, are distracted by their kids whining about leaving or in hysterics about arriving and then start fishing around for their change to pitch in. I witnessed a near miss at 395/30-A Saturday. On the best day during the busy season people seem to forget the principles and practice of negotiating a four way stop sign intersection-adding kids throwing softballs around, handsome firemen and bedazzled cancer survivors into the mix is absurd. If we are serious about keeping people safe in SOWAL, it should start on the highway.

[Zebraspots]

I almost got run over saturday because a driver was distracted by the panhandlers. It is a safety hazard and snarls traffic at an already problematic intersection.

[Andy A]

While some sound charities/causes benefit from shaking their boots and buckets, it really needs to stop. Too many people just don't know where they are going, are distracted by their kids whining about leaving or in hysterics about arriving and then start fishing around for their change to pitch in. I witnessed a near miss at 395/30-A Saturday. On the best day during the busy season people seem to forget the principles and practice of negotiating a four way stop sign intersection-adding kids throwing softballs around, handsome firemen and bedazzled cancer survivors into the mix is absurd. If we are serious about keeping people safe in SOWAL, it should start on the highway.

Absolutely true and really needed here. It never ceases to amaze me that people can't pull up to a four way stop, note the number of cars there and then proceed when it is their turn. Those able to count to four should be able to figure it out.

[Beach Bimmer]

While some sound charities/causes benefit from shaking their boots and buckets, it really needs to stop. If we are serious about keeping people safe in SOWAL, it should start on the highway.

Wish the Walton County Commissioners would consider:

• Ban soliciting on 30-A altogether due to the danger it adds to the traffic situation
• Or revise the ordinance to grant permits only during what are non-busy dates
• Or at a minimum, require groups that have already been granted permits for 2013 to stay on the side of the road and accept donations from there. No more standing in the road, please.

We love our local charities, but don't love you standing in the road distracting traffic.

[tsutcli]

http://defuniakherald.com/?p=3563

Officials OK roadside solicitation/activity policy

By DOTTY NIST

In response to recent complaints about roadside solicitation and “panhandling” in Walton County, county commissioners have approved a set of policies for nonprofit organizations wanting to hold fundraising drives or other events along the county right-of-way.

At the Walton County Board of County Commissioners (BCC) May 24 regular meeting in DeFuniak Springs Gerry Demers, acting county administrator, presented the comissioners with a document setting forth permitting policies for these activities. Demers said the document put in writing policies that Walton County Administration had been following for several years.

A permit from county administration is required in order for nonprofit organizations to use the county right-of-way for fundraising or events. These may include marches, parades, races, festivals, bucket drives, or any activity that may affect traffic or require assistance by law enforcement. Use of the right-of-way is not allowed for organizations, businesses or individuals other than nonprofits.

State roadways are a separate issue, and the state Department of Transportation must approve any use of the state right-of-way for events or fund raising.

Nonprofits are encouraged to contact county administration as soon as possible when planning roadway activities or fund raisers to discuss their plans, in order to avoid a conflict with activities planned by other organizations. They are required to apply for a roadside activity permit as soon as possible, and not less than 30 days before the activity is to take place.

There is a limit of two permits per year per organization.

Nonprofits must demonstrate that the activity or event “has a charitable benefit for the citizens of Walton County.”

Bucket drive fundraisers will not be permitted during holidays.

Activity organizers are required to coordinate with all local government agencies that may be impacted by the activity, including but not limited to the Walton County Sheriff’s Office, Walton County Code Enforcement, and fire officials.

Volunteers and other individuals participating in the roadside activities are required to wear safety vests and follow safety practices. They must be instructed not to block private driveways or other entrances to private property.

Signs for the activity may go up two days in advance and must be removed within two days afterward. Sign size is limited to 18 inches by 24 inches, and signs must be put up with wire stakes.

The document states, “When conducting bucket drive fundraising, all participants must be on the county right-of-way. Participants may approach a vehicle to collect contributions, but must not hold up traffic.”

An additional requirement is that a copy of the approved permit for the activity must be kept on location at all times.

Applications for nonprofits to use the county right-of-way are available on the Walton County Web site, www.co.walton.fl.us.

The commissioners approved the document by unanimous vote. Later, in response to public comment, they agreed to consider at a later date allowing nonprofits to do fund raisers more often than twice a year, once they have gauged how the adopted policy is working.

It clearly states that the collection activity must take place on the right-of-way but every one I have seen the collectors are also in the roadway. They are only allowed on the roadway to approach the vehicle to collect the donation and must not interfere with traffic.