Grants Pass Council approves mobile flower vendor in public parking lot

A proposal to authorize private commercial activity in the Grasshopper parking lot has sparked discussions among Grants Pass City Council members. The resolution, presented by Community Development Director Brad Clark, seeks to allow Mama Bee's Farm LLC to operate a mobile vending trailer selling flowers at 201 Northwest F Street.

Clark emphasized that this initiative aligns with the council's goals of fostering economic opportunities by permitting private businesses to utilize city-owned property for retail sales. The proposed operation would take place on weekdays from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m., although the application did not specify a duration for the use of the lot.

The Grasshopper parking lot, known for hosting the Saturday Growers Market, is located at the intersection of F and Fourth Streets. The council was informed that while the municipal code allows for food trucks and certain vendors in public rights of way, it does not explicitly address non-food vendors like Mama Bee's. This lack of prohibition has led to the current request for authorization.

Clark noted that the code does reference mobile vending vehicles, but primarily in relation to food vendors. He suggested that if the council approves the request, staff would work with Mama Bee's to designate a specific area within the parking lot to ensure public safety and circulation.

The council's decision on this resolution could pave the way for more diverse commercial activities in public spaces, reflecting a growing interest in supporting local businesses. Further discussions are expected as council members weigh the implications of this proposal on community dynamics and economic development.