News Talk 94.1/AM 1600 Where The Upper Cumberland Talks
As Cookeville considers a new panhandling ordinance, one issue would be citing individuals on state right of ways.
For example, the corner of Jefferson Avenue and I-40 as well as I-40 and Highway 111.
Cookeville Mayor Ricky Shelton said the city has explored that issue with Representative Ryan Williams. Shelton said it is something other cities might have interest in.
“The best way or simplest way to do that is to get something on the books that then each community would choose to opt-in if they want to participate in it, that way nothings being forced on every county or every city in the state,” Shelton said.
Shelton said Williams will explore the issue with legislators in the next session. Shelton said the issue is as much about safety as it is panhandling.
“It would be terrible if somebody ventured off the road and hit one of these folks, or if they stepped out into the road and got hit and that would create a whole other litany of issues,” Shelton said.
City Council will consider an ordinance Thursday night based on a Brentwood ordinance. Shelton said local residents have become concerned with the increased numbers of panhandlers in the community over the next several months, both around the interstate and at local shopping areas.
“You know I’ve received dozens of emails and calls because of the increased number of people panhandling and especially at the I-40 and Jefferson Avenue interchange area, first and foremost its a safety issue,” Shelton said.
Shelton said the city wants to also deal with the human part of the issue. He expects the city manager to come forward with specifics in the next several weeks.
