Panhandlng problems appear to have dropped in Vernon.
The City of Vernon reports a decrease in panhandling complaints from residents and businesses.
“I’ve noticed it myself,” said Coun. Juliette Cunningham.
There were 33 complaints in May, while they dropped to 21 in July and so far in August, there have been four.
“Some of that could be the heat that we are experiencing as historically, complaint or file levels have dropped a bit over the summer months,” said Clint Kanester, protective services manager.
The decrease has come since a panhandling strategy was initiated. It includes improved signage to discourage panhandling at intersections or from traffic medians, increased enforcement in some areas, public information about panhandling issues and the installation of kindness meters so residents can easily donate to recognized groups that help underprivileged people.
“It’s a humane way to deal with a complex issue,” said Cunningham.
Coun. Scott Anderson is pleased to see the decrease in complaints.
“The heightened awareness has helped,” he said.
While the actual cash value of the coins removed from the kindness meters has not been reported through the banking process, it is estimated from weight that the meters have made about $523 since June 30.
This money will be donated in its entirety to local agencies that provide support for homeless people in Vernon.
