Mayor Jeff Cogley said no permits are being issued for solicitation in Ford City Borough at the present time.
The Ford City mayor said that safety of borough residents is foremost on his mind at this time of year.
Mayor Jeff Cogley made it clear at last night’s public council meeting that the police department is not issuing solicitation permits at this time.
“Right now, we are not issuing any permits for anyone to be out soliciting, so if somebody knocks at your door, please call 911 and report it,” he told the residents in attendance at the meeting.
According to Cogley, there was an incident last week with individuals stating they were electrical contractors.
“We tried catching them, but they were just a step ahead of us,” Cogley said. “We got another report tonight, and the officer is dealing with them right now. We did catch up with them. This time of the year, you have people coming out there asking for money for gas, trying to change your gas or electric and everything, so and right now we are have put a hold on issuing any permits right now.”
Cogley said that candidates canvassing the neighborhood do not fall under solicitation. He also said that religious groups do not need a permit, but said residents should still be cautious.
“These ones that were coming around - they were pretty forceful. I mean they were trying to force their way into the highrises - Parkview, over at Freedom. They did get in at one building, and by the time we got there, they were gone. They were very forceful. So be aware.”
Resident Caroline Hassa said she purchased “no solicitation” signs and put them on both of her doors.
This Saturday, volunteers from the American Red Cross and the fire department will be coming to houses offering to install smoke detectors. Cogley said those individuals will be in groups of three and will have clear identification. Residents are urged to open their homes and receive the free smoke detectors.