03-12-2015 VC WS-MMINUTES OF THE WORKSHOP SESSION
VILLAGE COUNCIL OF NORTH PALM BEACH, FLORIDA
MARCH 12, 2015
Present: Darryl C. Aubrey, Sc.D., Mayor
Robert A. Gebbia, Vice Mayor
David B. Norris, President Pro Tem
Doug Bush, Councilmember
Judy M. Pierman, Councilmember
Jim Kelly, Village Manager
Leonard Rubin, Village Attorney
Melissa Teal, Village Clerk
ROLL CALL
Mayor Aubrey called the meeting to order at 7:54 p.m. All members of Council were present.
All members of staff were present.
CODE AMENDMENT — REGULATION OF PANHANDLING ACTIVITIES
Discussion was held concerning a draft ordinance regulating panhandling activities within the Village.
Mr. Kelly stated that panhandling activities have increased throughout the Village and disturb
residents and businesses, disrupt the free flow of pedestrian and vehicular traffic, and undermine
the Village's efforts to promote and attract businesses and preserve the quality of life of its residents.
Mr. Kelly reviewed the proposed definition of panhandling, and noted soliciting for a charitable
organization or passively playing music with a sign that a donation is sought would not
constitute panhandling.
Mr. Kelly advised the proposed ordinance would prohibit panhandling a) within 20 feet of an ATM,
bank, or entrance or exit to a commercial or governmental building; b) at a bus stop or on a
public transportation vehicle; c) in a parking lot or parking garage; d) alongside or within the median
of a roadway; and e) on private property.
Chief Jenkins and Mr. Rubin addressed Council concerns regarding charitable solicitation, as well
as street performances by musicians, jugglers, magicians, etc. Discussion ensued concerning
constitutionality. Mr. Rubin noted that panhandling can be regulated and aggressive panhandling
can be prohibited.
Discussion ensued regarding the term "commercial building." Mr. Rubin noted "commercial" refers
to any business. This wording will be revised. Regarding the term "public transportation vehicle,"
Mr. Rubin stated this would include a bus, Tri -Rail, trolley, or any form of public transportation,
but would not include a taxi.
Mr. Rubin explained the prohibition against panhandling on private property.
Discussion ensued on panhandling ordinances in adjacent municipalities.
This item was forwarded to the next Regular Session agenda.
ADJOURNMENT
With no further business to come before the Council, the meeting was adjourned at 8:14 p.m.
Melissa Teal, CMC, Vil age Clerk