City of Monterey one step closer to amending sidewalk vending ordinance
MONTEREY, Calif. (KION-TV) - Changes could be coming to the rules surrounding Monterey’s sidewalk vendors. On Tuesday night, Monterey City Council unanimously approved a first reading of proposed changes including the size of their operation and where they set up.
The proposed amendments include changes to the specific areas they can operate and the size of their tables, primarily in the area near Old Fisherman's Wharf.
I love the fact that people don't necessarily come for the vending, but they they love talking with us," Monterey sidewalk vendor Eli Melin said.
Eli Melin operates his woodworking business, Sawdust Shenanigan's, primarily for tourists visiting Monterey’s Old Fisherman’s Wharf.
He along with others are now worried about changes to the rules governing sidewalk vendors like him.
“I think they can definitely stunt the growth of the vending community, definitely discourage the people who have been doing this for years," Melin said.
One of the reasons cited for this change is public safety. That’s something some local business associations are calling on the city to address.
“We need to ensure that the sidewalk vendors are not overcrowded and have an ability to engage in their business without creating a safety hazard by blocking busy paths of travel," Fisherman's Wharf Association Executive Director Wendy Brickman said.
“I see conflicts between visitors, vendors and rec trail users regularly," said Rick Aldinger with the Monterey County
Other longtime vendors say safety is the top priority,but worry about what further restrictions could mean for them.
“Downsizing with unreasonable limits prevents the poor from having the business and thrive in the community if you, for example, lost your wages due to cuts or hours," Monterey sidewalk vendor Marina said.
City council members also brought up how many vendors should be allowed in an area, as well as expanding to other areas of Monterey aside from the wharf. The item is scheduled to come back for a second reading at an upcoming meeting where it could be adopted.
