Proposed ordinance could fine Tarpon Springs stores for stray shopping carts

TARPON SPRINGS, Fla. (FOX 13) - City commissioners in Tarpon Springs say abandoned shopping carts are becoming a big problem, and they want stores to do something about it.

Commissioners have been discussing proposed ordinance to hold stores accountable. As it stands now, Tarpon Springs businesses would have to implement one or more preventative measures or face a fine if code enforcement workers have to retrieve the cart for them. 

The ordinance has received mixed reactions, because it puts the burden of responsibility on stores and not the patrons walking off with the carts. 

“I think you’ve got to remember one thing,” explained Tarpon Springs police chief Robert Kochen, “even though these are big corporations, they’re still the victim of a crime.” 

Chief Kochen also expressed an understanding for the different reasons that patrons may take off with the shopping carts.

"Most of them are poor people, who have no means of transportation," he said.

Commissioners said they’re willing to work with business owners to implement the new ordinance, and will revisit and tweak it as needed. They will discuss the proposed shopping cart ordinance during their next meeting on February 12.