Pedestrian and Traffic Safety Ordinance sparks new propositions for Wheeling’s homeless population

WHEELING, W.Va. (WTRF) – With the issue of panhandling intensifying in Wheeling this summer, the city Rules Committee discussed a potential ‘Pedestrian and Traffic Safety ordinance’ as a public safety effort to restrict people from entering the median on main roadways.

This concern goes back to the root of homelessness throughout Wheeling.

Councilman Ben Seidler proposed introducing a HEART team to the city – standing for Homeless Engagement Assistant Resource Team.

He says this program has shown success in other states at getting homeless individuals rehabilitated and rehoused.

”What we’re doing here is just not working. We’ve thrown a lot of time, a lot of energy, a lot of money at the problem, and it’s just not effective. At the end of the day, we’re working really hard to make a better life for our homeless individuals and, you know, we have more than a homeless problem. We have an addiction problem, and we have a mental health problem. If we can’t get those things addressed first, housing them is not the solution.”

Ben Seidler – Ward 2, Wheeling City Council

Several members of the public also spoke out on this topic – some pointing to what they believe is a lack of resources in the area.

Moving forward, council will be working to find several partners to focus on, collaborate with, and work with as a small task force to help address the issue of homelessness.

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