Residents urge stronger vendor enforcement and tree protections as Stockton presents budget

During public comment at the June 5 study session, residents told council members the budget should better reflect quality‑of‑life priorities.

Dan Richardson asked the council to examine tax collection and enforcement for mobile vendors operating from trucks and parks, arguing such vendors siphon business from brick‑and‑mortar stores and often operate as cash businesses without receipts. "I think we need to focus on developing our current business ... encourage more brick and mortar business," Richardson said.

Katya Evanho, speaking for Tree Stockton, criticized recent council decisions and said historic alder trees in Old Midtown were cut despite community objections. Evanho said her group had sued the city to stop cutting and raised broader concerns about sidewalk maintenance, loss of canopy and the use of Measure A and Measure W funds. "I see historical trees being cut down ... My group, Tree Stockton, had to sue the city to stop the cutting," she said.

On library policy, Chris Ferro, director of community services, told the council the library division plans to expand digital and multilingual collections, renovate Chavez Central Library and eliminate adult overdue fees after the city previously removed youth fines. Ferro said research and industry practice indicate eliminating daily overdue fees can increase returns; replacement fees remain for items never returned.

Economic Development director Carrie Wright acknowledged staff were monitoring unlicensed vending at Concerts in the Park and said vendor enforcement is active at events. Council members asked budget and department staff follow up on enforcement, revenue collection options and maintenance concerns raised by commenters.

Comments in the session were civic appeals and did not result in immediate policy decisions; council members and staff flagged items for later review during budget follow up and future agenda items.