There's been a renegade food vendor selling pink lemonade and corn on the cob in the park right across from the Columbia City Market the past two weeks. Apparently they applied to the market and were turned down, but they decided they were going to come anyway.
After their appearance the first week a few of us called the health department only to find out that the health code makes a special dispensation for corn on the cob, so they don't need oversight by an organization like the farmers' market, as required for other food vendors. The health inspector suggested that we call the parks department, but apparently they're covered there too, with a permit that allows them to set up in public parks.
Yesterday the market folks had Billy's Farm move their big, colorful box truck to a spot that blocked the line of sight from the market to the corn vendor. In response, the corn vendor called parking enforcement, so the market folks had to move the truck.
I don't want them there, but I've been wondering why they have less of a right to be there than the ice cream truck or the guy selling African baskets.
5 comments:
Curious as to why they were turned down by the market folks and why they're not wanted nearby.
So have the necessary permits, are allowed to be there legally, what's the problem?
Natasha, Deborah-
I think the market turned them down because they use mainly processed ingredients (except for the corn-which isn't processed, but it certainly isn't local because there's no local corn available yet.)
The issue, as I understand it, is that the market puts a lot into building their infrastructure and these guys are taking advantage of the marketing and outreach that the farmers' market administration has done. I don't think most customers can even tell that they're not part of the market because they're set up so close.
Also, for better or for worse, this market association strictly limits the number of prepared food vendors that they allow at their markets because they believe that the events should be focused on farmers. Those of us who are vending there have worked for years to build relationships and establish seniority.
But my point is really that it's just not a black and white issue.
people should be able to sell in public. your attitude is very corporate. you defend "legitimate" market sellers and cheer on people who try to block their view. the public is the public, there are enough customers in the world for everyone. don't be so insecure into thinking that you're the only one that has the right to sell in public. there are nearly SEVEN BILLION PEOPLE ON THE EARTH. You don't have to be so petty and try to put down one measly corn seller. people like you make me sick.
Have a nice day.
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