MADISON, Wis. -- No matter where you are along State Street, more often than not, you'll probably find a panhandler, such as Frederick Burdick.

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Handling Panhandling

"I've been homeless for about a month now and have been panhandling with the rest of the people down here," Burdick told News 3 Wednesday.

For the most part, Burdick said he and the other panhandlers he sees pay attention to the rules -- keeping back behind the light poles and making sure not to be aggressive.

However, that can't be said for all, News 3 reported.

Alderman Mike Verveer doesn't want to ban panhandling, but he does want to propose that the ordinance be applied to the whole city and create a set distance for which it can occur.

"Over the years, I've been the recipient of my fair share of complaints from merchants saying they're losing customers," Verveer said.

The current, 21-year-old ordinance makes it illegal for menacing or aggressive panhandling downtown. Panhandlers must stay between light posts and the curb. New rules would restrict them to 12 feet from a building, 25 feet from an intersection and 50 feet from an ATM.

Burdick said Verveer's ordinance isn't fair to those who follow the current laws.

"I don't agree with it whatsoever," Burdick said. "It's not fair to those out here who are trying to make a living."

Verveer said a stricter ordinance would "improve the quality of life for people visiting, living and working downtown."

For downtown clerks, such as Jesse Thurber, any additional help would be appreciated. "It has died down a bit, but it still can be a problem," Thurber said. Some Madison residents told News 3 if panhandling is not aggressive, it doesn't bother them at all.

"I don't see what the problem is really," said Luke Haukeness. "They're out here looking for change, and if people want to give it to them they will. If they don't they won't."

Members of Madison's downtown community met Wednesday to discuss panhandling and decided Verveer's ordinance isn't the full solution. UW students also need to be involved and learn that giving money to panhandlers isn't always the answer.

The ordinance will go before the full city council for a vote April 19.