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Houston city leaders are considering new regulations for charitable organizations that feed persons that are homeless and shut in.
The proposed rules are scheduled to go before the Houston City Council this afternoon.
Under the new rules, charities would be required to register with the city and take a food-safety training class. The meals would also have to be served within four hours of preparation. Any violations of the requirements would be misdemeanors, carrying a fine of up to $2,000. The proposed ordinance would also limit feeding the homeless on public property. Feeding the homeless and shut in could only take place at Tranquility Park and two other spaces throughout the city. Organizations that feed the homeless, would need to get written permission to operate on private property.
Reports indicate that Mayor Annise Parker’s office, has listed at least 38 organizations known to provide feeding services for the homeless. Coordination and implementation of feeding programs and endeavors would be handled by the Coalition for the Homeless and the Houston Food Bank.
Houston city council will hear the proposed measures during today’s council meeting.
