WHEELING — Those in Wheeling who find themselves the owners of a $10 fine for an overtime parking violation once again will have a choice this holiday season in how to settle it.

The city of Wheeling once again will accept a donation of five non-perishable food items in lieu of that $10 fine through Jan. 1. This is the fourth year the city has adopted the “Food for Fines” initiative.

It has been a very successful initiative in the past, Wheeling Vice Mayor Chad ThalmanCity of Wheeling Institutes Food for Fines for Fourth Year

Staff reports

WHEELING — Those in Wheeling who find themselves the owners of a $10 fine for an overtime parking violation once again will have a choice this holiday season in how to settle it.

The city of Wheeling once again will accept a donation of five non-perishable food items in lieu of that $10 fine through Jan. 1. This is the fourth year the city has adopted the “Food for Fines” initiative.

It has been a very successful initiative in the past, Wheeling Vice Mayor Chad Thalman said. People have donated hundreds of non-perishable food items rather than pay the $10.

“In light of COVID-19 and the demands put on the food pantries, we feel it’s important to continue with our Food for Fines program,” Thalman said. “This year, we’ve expanded the effective dates because of the pandemic.

“In the spirit of the upcoming holiday season, this is a good opportunity to turn a parking ticket into something positive,” he added. “This is just one small way city council can give back to the community.”

Food for Fines will be valid for citations dated Nov. 1, 2020 through Jan. 1, 2021. Food donations must be taken to the city’s finance department on the first floor of the City-County Building, 1500 Chapline St., the same location where a fine would be paid. The food will then be distributed to food pantries throughout the city.

Food pantries interested in receiving a donation are asked to register with the finance department.

said. People have donated hundreds of non-perishable food items rather than pay the $10.

“In light of COVID-19 and the demands put on the food pantries, we feel it’s important to continue with our Food for Fines program,” Thalman said. “This year, we’ve expanded the effective dates because of the pandemic.

“In the spirit of the upcoming holiday season, this is a good opportunity to turn a parking ticket into something positive,” he added. “This is just one small way city council can give back to the community.”

Food for Fines will be valid for citations dated Nov. 1, 2020 through Jan. 1, 2021. Food donations must be taken to the city’s finance department on the first floor of the City-County Building, 1500 Chapline St., the same location where a fine would be paid. The food will then be distributed to food pantries throughout the city.

Food pantries interested in receiving a donation are asked to register with the finance department.