Macon eyes 'homeless meters' to reduce panhandling

MACON, Ga. (AP) - A group in Macon is exploring the idea of placing "homeless meters" in the downtown area in an attempt to reduce panhandling.

Officials say the meters are donation stations that resemble parking meters. Donations would go to homeless shelters and other charities.

The Telegraph of Macon reports that the Macon-Bibb County Urban Development Authority voted Thursday to act as fiscal agent for the proposed program. It is a project of Leadership Macon's 2012 class.

Project spokesman Chris Tsavatewa says the proposal will be brought before the Macon City Council in a couple of weeks, and that 12 council members have pledged their support of an ordinance.

Urban Development Authority Executive Director Alex Morrison said that giving money to panhandlers "is the worst thing" for the community and for panhandlers.