A recent front-page article in the local newspaper has caused quite a buzz on social media about the plight of the unhoused in Vidalia, even though the ordinance has not actually been passed by the Council.

These radio stations reached out to the City of Vidalia and were told they did not wish to comment on the matter at this time but did provide a copy of statement from City Manager Josh Beck to clarify any confusion.

In the statement, Beck, who most recently worked as the Director of the Vidalia Housing Authority before accepting his current position a couple of months ago, said, the proposed ordinance was an attempt to address the negative consequences of helping those in need while at the same time, provide assistance in helping to pinpoint permitted agencies who have been verified  to provide help for them.

Beck adds that while some people may question the cost of the permit, the current fee structure has not yet been solidified by the Council.

Prior to receiving the letter, the City Manager was asked if citizens would be refrained from providing nourishment to the homeless as insinuated by some social media posters, and he vehemently said that claim was  “Absolutely ludicrous.”

The City Manager also stipules that there must be a balance of serving the homeless population while also maintaining the safety and the concerns of others in the area. He writes, “The heart of the Mayor and Council is in harmonizing the needs of one while not jeopardizing the safety of the other.”

The ordinance was presented as a first reading at the June meeting of the Council and will be up for revision and/or adoption at the next meeting of the Council on July 8 at 6:00 in the Council Chambers in the Municipal Building.