DUBLIN, Ga. — The City of Dublin recently passed a new ordinance they hope will effectively address issues within the homeless community — and others who panhandle and loiter.
Al Manning is a business owner in Downtown Dublin and said he sees panhandlers on a daily basis.
"I think it has gotten worse, and really, I would say over the last year, year and a half," Manning said.
His family started their downtown business in 2010, and he said he's seen many panhandlers come and go.
"I don't think the panhandlers are dangerous," Manning said. "They're just aggravating."
The city already had a panhandling and loitering ordinance they adopted in 2019.
According to that ordinance, there are certain rules panhandlers have to follow, like not panhandling within 20 feet of an ATM.
The city hopes this new ordinance will fill some of the gaps from the first ordinance's goal, by taking a more considerate approach to those who need help.
"It's more of a we're gonna give you a fine, or arrest you. We're gonna try to help you, see if you got the resources," Councilmember Benny Jones said.
Jones said the city hopes police officers can help people who are panhandling and loitering by giving the a chance to comply and leave the area before it becomes a legal matter.
"We're gonna print a list of all the resources we have here in Dublin, such as the V.A., mental help — all the resources we have that could help people out," Jones said.
Last week Mayor Joshua Kight told the city council that the new ordinance addresses defecating, urinating and bathing in public.
Manning said if tourists get offended by loiterers and panhandlers, they may not come back.
"For us to prosper, I guess for the restaurants too...you have to control it some way," Manning said.
Jones hopes this new way will be better for everyone, including those who need help.
"If you have people that's homeless and living on the streets, then you put 'em in a court system and fine them, they're not gonna be able to pay, that's why they're homeless," Jones said.