Pima County to use signs to dissuade panhandling at intersections

Photo byUnsplash

Pima County is preparing to install signs at select high-traffic intersections with the aim of discouraging panhandling.

The signs will display the message: “Say no to panhandling. Say yes to helping agencies serving those in need.”

The sign initiative is expected to contribute to a decline in panhandling activities at targeted intersections and public spaces, and encourage drivers to donate to nonprofits instead of giving cash to panhandlers.

The move comes from the recommendation of the county’s Small Business Commission, which advises the Board of Supervisors on policies that affect the local business community, County Administrator Jan Lesher said.

According to Lesher, there’s no enforcement planned to deter panhandling, but hopes the signage spreads the message that “if you feel badly, if you want to give money, perhaps think about giving it to a nonprofit that can help the folks rather than the individual directly.”