In some Langley Park, Maryland, neighborhoods, vendors sell food, drinks and snacks from tents, canopies and even the backs of cars.
For some residents, the vendors are a nuisance. For others, they provide a way to make a living.
Those competing views collided Monday as the Prince George’s County Council considered legislation updating decades-old street vending regulations.
The debate came as the council worked through dozens of bills before the legislative year ends ahead of next week’s election.
Two bills sponsored by Council member Wanika Fisher would require vendors to comply with county permitting requirements while creating a pilot program aimed at streamlining the process.
The proposals drew significant public comment. Many immigrants, speaking through an interpreter, urged council members to reject the permitting measure.
“I beg you to please support our immigrant community,” one woman said. “We need to survive, and we are trying to do our best to live together, so we can work together.”
Others said vendors block sidewalks and occupy street parking, making it difficult for children to ride bicycles and residents to host visitors.
“It’s unacceptable,” another woman said. “This is Monday through Sunday. Food being sold: hibachi grills, fire, propane tanks. It’s crazy.”
The permitting bill passed 7-4. Once enacted, vendors will have one year to comply. The legislation still must be reviewed by the county executive before taking effect.
Vending on private property will remain legal. Council member Tom Dernoga said existing exceptions are expected to limit the impact on many vendors.
A separate pilot program passed 9-0. It directs county permitting, economic development and health officials to establish designated areas where regulated street vending is allowed while creating a more streamlined permitting process.
The bills were also amended to lower fines and require a warning for a first offense. Repeat violations would face escalating penalties, and goods could be removed in some cases.
After the vote, Fisher said some criticism of the legislation had become personal.
“I think it’s so important to understand that things come from a good place,” Fisher said. “Things are not, always. You’re not going to like everything in legislation. You’re not going to like everything in following the law. I don’t.”
Fisher said she understands the differing perspectives.
“I don’t mind you being against legislation,” she said, after discussing past legislative efforts on behalf of the Hispanic community. “But don’t disparage my character. Come to my face in the hallway if you want to do that.”
The County Council will wrap up its legislative year with another marathon session Tuesday, when lawmakers are expected to take up legislation tied to financing plans for the proposed Sphere project at National Harbor.
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