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Plain City debates mobile vendor permit changes and fee structure; vendor ordinance first reading tabled
Summary
Council reviewed draft amendments regulating mobile vendors on public property, including vendor permit types, background checks and fee options (daily $10 or annual $100 discussed); the first reading of the vendor ordinance was tabled to the March 9 meeting for further refinement.
Staff presented proposed comprehensive amendments to Chapter 7.35 to create a consistent process for mobile vendors operating on public property (right‑of‑way) and to align public‑property rules with those already in place for private‑property vendors.
The proposed changes include permitting requirements for vendors on public property, stated exceptions for village events, a retained ability for the village to require background/warrants checks, and suggested fee structures. Council members debated whether fees should be per event or annual (examples discussed included a $10 per‑day option for one‑off events and a $100 annual permit for recurring vendors). Members also discussed permitted proximity to schools and restaurants, whether mobile vendor riders should be allowed near existing brick‑and‑mortars, and how special village events should be treated.
Staff reported research on peer jurisdictions showed a wide range of approaches and fee levels; credit/background check costs quoted in the discussion ranged from about $25 to $250 in surveyed municipalities, and an average figure mentioned in the packet was $74.25. Council expressed concern about unintended consequences for small vendors and proposed offering both per‑event and annual permit options to balance accessibility and regulation.
After discussion the council tabled the first reading of the ordinance to the March 9 meeting to allow staff to return with refined fee options and clearer language about exceptions for village events and private‑property partners.
