Commission issues public statement on sidewalk vending violations, urges additional resources

At the end of the Jan. 23 meeting, the commission read a drafted public statement addressing sidewalk and roadside food vendors operating in apparent violation of the city’s ordinance. The statement, read by a commissioner, said vendors had been observed operating in the public right of way with open flames, blocking pedestrian and ADA access, and discharging matter such as oil and grease into storm drains. The statement acknowledged vendors who operate legally and recommended that Mayor and Council allocate additional resources to address violations that affect public health, safety and waterways.