Avalon continues discussions on Sidewalk Vendor Bill regulations

AVALON—For Avalon, the Sidewalk Vendor Bill, also known as SB 946, introduced by former Gov. Jerry Brown has proved to be a headache as city staff still grapples with how to properly regulate the new bill. Avalon City Council continued talks on introducing an ordinance for the bill, on April 2, to the city’s municipal code. Although the ordinance was meant to be read into law at the meeting, city staff decided to hold off until a future meeting to further craft a lottery or selection process for choosing vendors. In January, city staff introduced some regulations for sidewalk vendors. Currently, 24 applicants have submitted paperwork to hold a street vending permit under the previous regulations. According to Dan Huncke, Community Services Director, about half the applications are for food services and the other half are for merchandise. However, Avalon city staff has not yet approved any permit holders. The new regulations will be in effect for six months and could then be adjusted after the summer season. Huncke gave a presentation on how the ordinance have been revised since: city staff decided to permit six vendors instead of 12 at any time; Livescan background checks will be removed; vending is prohibited...