Letter: Employment is a solution to panhandling

Regarding the Aug. 6 letter 'Banishing panhandlers is appalling decision”:

The letter writer described as appalling and shameful the Cedar Rapids City Council's proposal to curb roadside panhandling, claiming it is a right. Sorry, but I can't curry favor with her argument for these people when I see three major businesses that routinely have 'Help Wanted” signs posted. All are within walking distance of the Interstate 380 interchanges. How many other nearby businesses also post such signs?

I figure if solicitors can stand all day long asking for pocket change, how many of them could stand at a cash register, stock shelves, or answer the phone, and get paid for doing so? The real problem here is the passersby who reinforce panhandling behavior.

Rich Zeis

Walker