New rules require charities to get a permit. But don't expect to get one for busy Ridge Road at U.S. 19.
By ALEX LEARY
Published May 28, 2003
PORT RICHEY - Solicitors attracted to the stream of cars at Ridge Road and U.S. 19 likely will lose access to the intersection under an ordinance passed Tuesday night by the City Council.
The new rules, approved by a 4-1 vote (Mayor Eloise Taylor was the lone dissenter), require charitable organizations to obtain a permit from the city before using city roadways. City officials could refuse the permit if the activity and location are deemed unsafe.
Most likely, that would preclude the use of the Ridge Road and U.S. 19 intersection, City Manager Vince Lupo said.
Groups that say they are collecting for charity began showing up at the intersection around Christmas. Some motorists, in complaints to the city, say the solicitors are aggressive - tapping on windows, and darting in and out of traffic - creating a safety issue.
If a permit is granted, solicitors would have to be at least 17 years old and wear high visibility vests. Insurance for personal injury and property damage would be required. And solicitors still could not solicit from the median in the road.
It would be illegal for someone to accost, intimidate, obstruct or grab a motorist. Violations could result in a fine up to $500, 60 days in jail, or both.
Door-to-door salespeople also would be regulated under the new ordinance. They would need a valid permit and could not work between 8 p.m. and 8 a.m.
In other city news Tuesday, a county judge granted the Building Department an inspection warrant for the Moonlight Bay mobile home park on Grand Boulevard.
The city said it went to court only after meeting resistance from the owner.
"It's unfortunate but it's something that was needed in this case," building official Bill Sanders said.
The inspections are set to begin today, and will focus on code violations and health issues, said Bette Farmerie, building inspector.
A worker at the mobile home park, Rose Spencer, said Tuesday that the management has made an effort in recent weeks to clean up, continuing a process that began earlier this year.
Residents Tuesday gave conflicting assessments of the owners. Clydette Dunton, 47, said her problems are always promptly addressed.
But Octavia Gifford, 20, who moved in recently, said her tub drips and her electrical switches short out. Her calls for help have gone unanswered, she said and added that she plans to move out.
- Alex Leary covers the city of Port Richey. He can be reached in west Pasco at 869-6247 or toll-free at 1-800-333-7505, ext. 6247. His e-mail address is leary@sptimes.com
