SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO.com) — Sioux Falls City Councilor Christine Erickson says it seems that panhandlers are on private property and every interstate exit now.
Erickson and Councilor Greg Neitzert have been talking to the police department to see if more can be done.
You’ve got to be careful because panhandlers have First Amendment rights too.
“I know it’s certainly a hot button item for many of the constituents we serve making sure that we are doing what we can, but at the same time upholding our First Amendment rights.”
Erickson says she hopes the discussions with the police will bear fruit soon and there will be something to bring to City Council.
Panhandling in the city is technically not illegal. The police say panhandlers have to be on public property and get permission if they want to stand on private property and they can’t be walking out into traffic.
Still, Erickson and Neitzert want to find out if more can’t be done to lessen the problem.
