Panhandling in Kalispell Public Comment from D.R. HedemanAimee Brunckhorst
From: David Hedeman <hedemand39@gmail.com>
Sent: Wednesday, March 15, 2023 3:00 PM
To: Kalispell Meetings Public Comment
Subject: EXTERNAL Panhandling in Kalispell
Why panhandling? Driving around town I've seen numerous businesses
with "HELP WANTED" signs posted. If those who are panhandling need
money, they should apply for a job. So why panhandle if work is
available? I suspect it is more profitable to panhandle. Flexible hours, no
payroll tax deductions from their "panhandling paycheck" and it pays
better than the $9.95/hour minimum wage. (actually, most businesses
offer a lot more per hour than the minimum wage.) No need to worry
about health insurance premiums, just go to the ER. Are the panhandlers
on welfare? No doubt.
I hate to say it, but the well intentioned people who give money to the
panhandlers are getting snookered. It would be better if the money was
given to places like the Samaritan House which really tries to give long
term help to folks.
The easier Kalispell makes it for these folks the more will show up at the
doorstep. That's a given. Another warming center, ect. the more will
come.
Time for some tough love. Keep it simple and make it illegal to
panhandle within the City limits and/or to give to
panhandlers. Offenders can be assigned to do public work.
Yours truly,
D. R. Hedeman
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