HaroldWang

If by cruelty you mean numerous shelters, soup kitchens, and homeless assistance programs then you're right. If you visited here, you'd realize how "homeless friendly" this city really is. From the climate to the charities to govt sponsored programs, Fort Lauderdale has become a popular city for the impoverished which is what lead to the ordinance in the first place. It is easy to pick up your pitchforks and torches, but don't forget about the tax paying residents and businesses who are affected by homeless. Something needed to be done and the ordinance is an equitable solution for all.

I disagree that the mayor has "personally sought enforcement". The majority of residents, like myself, agree with the mayor and the ordinance, however since we are not the ones protesting and fighting, our voices get drowned out. Do you live in Fort Lauderdale? How do you feel about Abbott disregarding the offers from the city to feed the homeless in designated areas like the aquatic complex (very close to the beach where he currently feeds homeless) or Church by the Sea, also very close? This seems like just an act of defiance in an attempt to garner more attention.

Ok, so why not comply with the ordinance and distribute food in designated, sanitary areas with basic hygiene? It's safer for your patrons, keeps the public parks cleaner, and it seems like a good compromise for all. So what's the rub? If I wanted to have a BBQ in a public park for 30 of my friends, I would have to get a permit and if the city didn't want me having it there, I'd have to move it. Why shouldn't you? Your desire to help is altruistic, your execution is short sighted and close minded bc you're hurting a lot more people than you are helping.