Explanation
The purpose of this legislation is to increase the scope of current prima facie evidence of intimidation relative to aggressive panhandling as established in Columbus City Codes, 1959. This legislation will amend sections 2333.01, 2333.02 (A) and (B), 2333.04 (A) and (B) and 2333.99 (A) and (B) of the Columbus City Codes, 1959, Prima facie evidence of intimidation. Among the changes, the distance from an entrance of a banking organization or licensed casher of checks, automated teller machine or automated teller machine facility within which begging would be considered prima facie evidence of intimidation will increase from twenty (20) to twenty-five (25) feet. Similarly, the ordinance creates a ten (10) foot buffer around public parking meters, parking lots and pay telephones and also makes begging within twenty-five (25) feet of an outdoor patio or sidewalk café prima facie evidence of intimidation. The ordinance also creates an improper solicitation after dark offense, whereby certain verbal solicitations of money would be prohibited after nightfall until sunrise. The changes also necessitate the addition of new definitions and new sub-sections to sections 2333.01, 2333.02, 2333.04 and 2333.99.
Title
To amend existing Sections 2333.01, 2333.02, 2333.04 and 2333.99 of the Columbus City Codes, 1959, to increase the scope of current prima facie evidence of intimidation relative to aggressive panhandling and to create the offense of improper solicitation after dark.
Body
WHEREAS, the Columbus Division of Police reports an increase in the number of complaints from residents, visitors, and businesses regarding aggressive solicitation or "aggressive panhandling" throughout the City; and
WHEREAS, aggressive panhandling is distinctly different than the simple act of begging, which is generally considered to be constitutionally protected free speech; and
WHEREAS, aggressive panhandling is defined by intimidation, or, the act of so...
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