A new proposal to ban sidewalk food vendors in Fresno’s popular Tower District is sparking intense debate among city officials, vendors, and community advocates.
The proposal, which targets the busiest nights of the week, aims to curb crime and increase public safety, but critics argue it unfairly punishes small business owners and fails to address the root causes of local problems.
The proposal, introduced by Fresno City Councilmembers Miguel Arias and Annalisa Perea, includes two key measures:
- Ban on Sidewalk Vending: prohibits food vendors from operating on Friday and Saturday nights between 6 p.m. and 3 a.m. in the Tower District
- Increased Fines for Unpermitted Vendors: vendors caught operating without a permit would face escalating fines
A second violation could result in a fine of up to $100, with penalties increasing for subsequent violations…