By: Associated Press//September 21, 2016//
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — The Madison City Council has rejected a plan that would have banned people from sleeping on downtown sidewalks during certain hours.
Opponents say the proposal from Mayor Paul Soglin was pushing the homeless out of the area while failing to provide any alternatives. Supporters say that allowing people to sleep in the Central Business District inhibits the vitality of the area and gives rise to safety and health concerns.
The State Journal (http://bit.ly/2ctygl0 ) says the plan would have banned sleeping between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m. One verbal warning was allowed before a fine of $10 for a first offense was imposed.
Soglin offered a similar plan last October, which was rejected by the council.