Bad for business

I know some Spokanites believe it is cruel to ask the disenfranchised to move from their current commercial doorway/sidewalk or private location, so that customers might be able to enter an establishment. I empathize for those who are on the streets, either by choice or circumstance.

It is cruel to expect business owners who pay rent in the hundreds or thousands to have a business on street level and expect customers to ignore the people sleeping or passed out in the doorway or sidewalk. Some say, ignore the requests for a cigarette or change. Some would suggest it is the shopper who needs tolerance. However, if that shopper has an option of conducting his or her business in a more comfortable environment, where do you think that person will shop. Where would you shop?

Sit and lie has to be enforced by someone for it to be effective. Not to hassle street people, but to allow the business playing field to be leveled. Why do you think there are so many street level and skywalk level commercial vacancies in Spokane?

Now, what do Lime scooters, or any other sidewalk surfing boards, have to do with sit and lie? There is no, zip, zero, nada enforcement to keep these potentially dangerous devices off the sidewalks in the core of downtown Spokane.

Look, I don’t have an answer or solution to the homeless or others living on the streets. But it’s not going to be solved soon. Meanwhile, consider the pressure brick-and-mortar establishments are dealing with. People need to walk in the door. Or, stay home and e-shop.

Jim Bickel

Spokane