West Virginia city officials propose Anti-Panhandling Ordinance after increased instances of aggressive panhandlers

WHEELING, W.Va. (WTRF) — Wheeling may soon have an ordinance regulating panhandling.

City officials say it’s been an issue for years, but the problems have intensified this summer.

They say there have been some aggressive panhandlers and some instances of multiple panhandlers in the same space.

So they’re crafting a proposed ordinance focusing on safety, particularly at intersections.

Not only safety for the panhandler but also safety for the motoring public. You know we certainly don’t want anybody to get hit by a car. We don’t want fender benders, etc. Then there’s legalities associated with panhandling where the Supreme Court has ruled that it is permitted. So it’s just a matter of looking at the overall picture and hopefully coming up with some legislation.”

Robert Herron, Wheeling City Manager

The city manager says several city council members have asked the administration to fashion an anti-panhandling ordinance.

He says it is currently in the draft stage.

He anticipates it will be introduced to the council at their rules committee meeting next Tuesday, August 20, so they can begin to consider it.

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