04/18/1990 Meeting - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

e B. Vendors on 13th Avenue Ms. Bascom said she has recently received complaints from merchants concerned with increasing numbers of vendors on 13th Avenue. Merchants are concerned that sidewalk vendors compete for business, but do not have to pay property taxes. She noted that similar concerns were raised several years ago, at which time the council drafted an ordinance to handle these concerns. Tim Sercombe, City Attorney's Office, indicated that as a result of a recent court decision, the ordinance created by the council governing sidewalk vending was declared to be in violation of a vendor's right to equal protection. This decision was based on the fact that the council minutes regarding this action contained an inadequate explanation of why persons should be denied permit applications. Mr. Sercombe said that City counsel believes that this ruling is wrong, and will be working with the City Manager to identify possible legal options. Because of this ruling, however, there is currently no ordinance in place regulating street vending. Mr. Gleason added that the City is currently working with merchants, vendors, and the University of Oregon to develop a practical solution to this problem. C. Park Block Curb Cuts e Mr. Boles indicated that the southwest corner of the recently renovated park blocks on 8th Avenue does not have curb cuts for wheelchair access. He noted that curb cuts are particularly important for access to Saturday Market and asked about the possibility of installing a temporary ramp at this site until curb cuts can be put in place. Mr. Smith assured Mr. Boles that this oversight will be corrected. D. Returned Peace Corp Volunteers Mr. Boles directed the council's attention to a fund-raising request recently received from the returned Peace Corps volunteers for aid in sponsoring a conference in Eugene. He noted that there are approximately 1,500-2,000 people already registered for this conference and said he would come before the council at its next Wednesday meeting to request a monetary donation from the council for this project. Mr. Bennett voiced concern that the council does not have specific policy guidelines governing monetary contributions and requested council discussion on this issue at some time in the near future. The council offered its support to undertake this type of discussion in the future. E. Global Cities Program Mr. Boles indicated that at a recent council meeting, the council offered its endorsement of the Global Cities project and declared its intention to sponsor an Earth Day-related activity in the community. He proposed that the council join the Global Cities Program. There is a one-time cost to join of $2,000 and annual dues of $100-$200. The City will receive valuable e MINUTES--Eugene City Council April 18, 1990 Page 4