Editorial - September 2003

Assure validity of street solicitors

Published September 10, 2003

The city of Dunn, N.C. recently passed an ordinance that puts some checks on street solicitors who were pestering motorists at several busy intersections. Lincolnton should consider taking a similar action because of the frequent solicitations at the Generals Boulevard  and East Main Street intersection.

Few people would object to a “Fill the Boot” fundraiser in which uniformed firemen hold up the familiar boot as they collect money to fight muscular dystrophy. No doubt, other solicitations for worthwhile causes have been made at this intersection. But questions arise when there is no identification on the solicitors, and their affiliation is vaguely stated as they confront motorists stopped for traffic signals. They usually represent themselves as fund-raisers for some type of church benefit. That may be well and good, but somebody should check it out first.

Under the ordinance adopted by Dunn, if a charity solicits money on city streets or sidewalks, a representative of that group must buy a $20 permit 30 days in advance of the planned fund drive. The application for the permit requires a person’s name, information on whether that person has been convicted of assault or fraud, the organization’s name and the purpose of the funds. Solicitors have to wear identification, including their name and the name of their organization. And they cannot block city rights of way, set up tables on sidewalks, or give out candy or pins. For a local charity or church organizations,  such rules should not be a burden.

Lincolnton officials may want to research similar ordinances in other cities for the most suitable provisions. The point is that would-be contributors need some reassurance that these solicitors are legitimate before they fork out money after being distracted at a busy intersection.

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© 2001 Lincoln Times-News  

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