20:39The meeting’s most pressing agenda item was the proposed changes to the sidewalk food cart ordinance, aimed at increasing operational flexibility for vendors across Minneapolis. The current model, which restricts vendors to one license per cart and location, would be amended to allow greater mobility and financial relief. Proposed operational hours for vendors would extend from 6:00 AM to midnight, with adjustments for residential areas and designated late-night operation zones. This ordinance aims to redefine vending zones to include a broader array of “goods and services corridors,” enabling vendors to operate citywide. A reduction in the distance buffer from park properties from 500 feet to 200 feet was also proposed, aligning food cart regulations with existing food truck ordinances.

01:01:28Public comments during the hearing underscored the importance of the ordinance for immigrant vendors and local economies. Several speakers shared personal stories, emphasizing the need for licensing to support their families and integrate into the community. Martha Ezama expressed gratitude for the opportunity to advocate for cultural dishes from Ecuador, while Erika Luna highlighted the ordinance’s potential to provide stable employment for street vendors. Blaine M, a long-time vendor, praised the proposed changes for enhancing downtown vibrancy but noted concerns regarding temporary events displacing vendors. Ryan Brown, a local bar and restaurant owner, expressed opposition, citing issues with unlicensed vendors and the need for equitable treatment of established businesses.

08:12Following the public input, the committee shifted focus to an ordinance for a local cannabis registration program, an important part of the city’s regulatory framework. This initiative aligns with Minnesota law, which mandates local registration for certain cannabis business types. The ordinance would oversee various business types, including cannabis microbusinesses and retailers. A city manager explained the benefits of maintaining local oversight, including facilitating age compliance checks and other regulatory functions. The committee discussed the timeline for the state’s Office of Cannabis Management’s licensing process, with the city poised to commence registrations post-state approval.

17:02In addition to these primary topics, the committee reviewed a proposal authorizing the sale of part of 1027 Essex Street to SvlaZa LLC for $1,600,000. The land, formerly an old roadway, is designated for a public plaza within the “The Mix” redevelopment project, intended to bolster community space and collaboration with the University of Minnesota. Although no public comments were made regarding the sale, the committee approved the item, emphasizing its role in enhancing community connectivity and retail activity.

The committee also addressed a sidewalk cart and street vending program, focusing on unlicensed vendors and compliance with city standards. Amendments to disability justice language in city codes were approved, replacing terms like “handicap loading zone” with “accessible transfer zone.” This motion received unanimous support.